HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl present two intriguing options, each catering to different typing preferences. The Silent Sakura switches are celebrated for their whisper-quiet operation, offering an ultra-light 43g bottom out force that appeals to light typists who crave a serene, almost meditative typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl switches stand out with their innovative ball-bearing design, which minimizes friction during keystrokes, resulting in a remarkably smooth and fluid typing feel. While the Silent Sakura prioritizes discreetness and comfort, the WS Pearl delivers a unique tactile experience that combines a medium-high pitched sound with an effortless glide. Both switches have their distinct advantages, appealing to different styles of typing and preferences for sound and feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl share a common top housing material—nylon—which significantly influences the sound profile experienced when typing. Both switches benefit from the inherent qualities of nylon, a classic switch housing material that fosters a deeper and fuller sound. This is largely due to nylon's composition as a softer plastic, which helps absorb sound waves rather than reflecting them. Consequently, both switches provide a duller and rounder sound, allowing users to anticipate a smooth and pleasant auditory experience regardless of which switch they choose.
However, the two switches diverge when it comes to their bottom housings. The Silent Sakura employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is known for producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This is a result of polycarbonate's stiffer nature, which promotes clarity and resonance. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a nylon bottom housing, just like its top housing. This creates a more consistent sound profile throughout the switch, mirroring the characteristics of its top housing and leading to a deeper and fuller sound. As such, while both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, the Silent Sakura’s polycarbonate bottom provides a unique crispness that contrasts with the rounded tonal qualities of the WS Pearl.
In summary, typing on both the Silent Sakura - 43g and the WS Pearl can yield similar experiences in terms of sound, especially during the key press, due to the common use of nylon in their top housing. However, the experience diverges during the bottom-out phase: Silent Sakura’s polycarbonate bottom imbues a more vibrant sound signature compared to the deep, warm tones of the WS Pearl's nylon bottom housing. As a result, while users of either switch can expect satisfying auditory feedback, they will also encounter nuanced differences that define each switch's unique character.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, we find notable differences in their characteristics. The Silent Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it well-suited for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, especially during extended use. In contrast, the WS Pearl switch has a lighter actuation force at 30 grams, which may appeal to those seeking an easier keystroke; however, it has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that while the actuation feels lighter in comparison to the Sakura, it requires substantially more force to bottom out, creating a different tactile experience. Ultimately, for those who prioritize a lighter switch for long typing sessions, the Silent Sakura is the better choice, whereas users who enjoy a firmer feel upon bottoming out may prefer the heavier characteristics of the WS Pearl. Thus, while both have their pros and cons, they cater to different preferences in typing dynamics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, we find a notable difference that may influence user preference. The Silent Sakura has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and allows for a deeper feel when pressing down on a key. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, catering to those who seek greater responsiveness and quicker actuation, often favored by gamers. Ultimately, if you prefer a hearty depth and a more tactile experience, the Silent Sakura's longer distance may be ideal for you, while the WS Pearl's shorter distance can enhance speed and efficiency for those who prioritize rapid response times in their typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Pearl comes in at $6.00.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is celebrated for its exceptionally quiet operation, reminiscent of gentle raindrops tapping against a window. This muted auditory profile makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a serene typing environment or who work in shared spaces where noise levels matter. Conversely, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switch produces a medium-high pitched sound signature attributed to its unique design, which incorporates ball-bearings to facilitate smoother keystrokes. While both switches offer distinctive sound characteristics, the Silent Sakura focuses on minimizing auditory distractions, making it ideal for quiet settings, while the WS Pearl delivers a more pronounced auditory feedback that might invite a more tactile engagement from the typist.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g is designed to provide a light and soft touch, with an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force. This makes it particularly suited for typists who prefer effortless keystrokes and a gentle typing experience. The WS Pearl, on the other hand, prides itself on a remarkably smooth keystroke feel, thanks to its ball-bearing mechanism that reduces friction during typing. This unique feature offers a sensation that is almost surreal, providing an engaging typing experience that feels less laborious compared to traditional linear switches. While their overall feel is rooted in the linear switch category, the Silent Sakura emphasizes lightness and subtlety, whereas the WS Pearl prioritizes a slick and fluid typing motion.
Ultimately, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel, making them appealing for varying types of users. The Silent Sakura excels in providing a soft, quiet typing experience ideal for focused work environments, while the WS Pearl offers an engagingly smooth feel paired with a higher-pitched auditory signature. Depending on your priorities—whether tranquility or unique tactile feedback—both switches can deliver satisfying results, allowing you to choose based on your personal typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a quiet, serene typing experience and have a lighter touch, the Silent Sakura may be the better option for you. Its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force makes it ideal for those who want to minimize noise and enjoy a gentle keystroke reminiscent of soft rainfall, perfect for shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions. On the other hand, if you seek a more robust tactile experience with a smoother action, the WS Pearl switch could be your go-to. With its medium 58g bottom-out force and innovative ball-bearing design, this switch provides a satisfying keystroke and a medium-high pitched sound signature, making it suitable for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback and slightly more resistance while typing. In the end, aligning your choice with your typing style, sound preferences, and intended usage will help you find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
