HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience, and two noteworthy options are the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+. The Silent Sakura switches are designed for a whisper-quiet typing experience, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a subtle ambiance reminiscent of gentle raindrops. With an ultra-light bottom-out force of just 43g, they cater perfectly to light typists looking to minimize noise in shared spaces. In contrast, the WS POM+ switches offer an all-POM construction that delivers a satisfying "thock" sound signature, coupled with a buttery-smooth keystroke, appealing to users who prioritize a more tactile feedback in their typing experience. While both switches fall under the linear category, they cater to different needs and preferences, ultimately influencing the overall feel and sound of your keyboard. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, there are notable differences in the choice of top housing materials. The Silent Sakura employs a nylon top housing, which is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's softer plastic properties, which are effective in absorbing sound and minimizing harshness. In contrast, the WS POM+ features a POM top housing, which, although also generating a deeper sound, does so with a unique quality that is relatively more muted. While both materials aim for a pleasant auditory experience, the transition from nylon to POM in the top housing results in a distinct handling of sound, leading to different tactile and audible feedback during typing.
The bottom housings of these switches reveal further differences, with the Silent Sakura utilizing polycarbonate and the WS POM+ employing POM. The polycarbonate bottom of the Silent Sakura contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material, which enhances clarity and resonance. This makes it particularly well-suited for switches designed for RGB lighting, as polycarbonate’s translucency allows for better light diffusion. On the other hand, the WS POM+ utilizes a POM bottom housing that shares a deeper and more muted sound profile, echoing the characteristics of its top housing. Both switches exhibit distinct auditory qualities originating from their respective bottom housings, which ultimately impacts the overall typing experience.
In summary, while both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ feature different materials for their top and bottom housings, their unique combinations yield a range of auditory experiences. The nylon and polycarbonate used in the Silent Sakura create a balance of depth and clarity, while the POM used in the WS POM+ leans towards a more muted sound profile. When typing on either switch, users can expect differing sound outcomes, as the combination of materials influences the bottom-out feel and release sound. Ultimately, whether you prefer the softer, deeper profile of the Silent Sakura or the unique muted quality of the WS POM+, both switches are designed to offer satisfying acoustic performances, but will elicit different tactile sensations based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces is notable. The Silent Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the WS POM+ switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which may appeal to users seeking a more substantial feel while typing. Therefore, while the Silent Sakura is the lighter option overall, with both its actuation and bottom out forces lower than those of the WS POM+, the WS POM+ offers a more weighted experience that some users might prefer for enhanced feedback. Ultimately, those who opt for the lighter Silent Sakura will likely enjoy a smoother, less strenuous typing experience, whereas the heavier WS POM+ will provide a firmer keystroke, catering to different user preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance can significantly affect user experience. The Silent Sakura offers a more traditional feel with its 4 mm depth, which some users may appreciate for its hearty depth and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the WS POM+ provides a shorter travel distance, making it potentially more appealing to gamers who favor quicker response times for fast-paced gameplay. If you prefer the responsiveness of a shorter travel distance, the WS POM+ would be the better choice. Conversely, if you value a more pronounced keystroke, the Silent Sakura would be more suited to your preferences. Overall, the Silent Sakura has the longer travel distance, while the WS POM+ offers the shorter option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 43g for $2.99.
The Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90 per 10 switches.
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 linear switch is designed to provide a whisper-quiet typing experience, akin to gentle raindrops softly falling against a window, making it an ideal choice for environments where noise is a concern. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switch boasts a deep, satisfying “thock” sound that resonates beautifully as you type, creating a more impactful auditory experience. While the Silent Sakura emphasizes a silent and serene atmosphere, the WS POM+ offers a more pronounced sound profile, bringing a different vibe to your typing experience. Ultimately, the state of your keyboard build, such as the choice of board and keycaps, will still influence the final sound produced by either switch.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch is tailored for a lighter typing experience, featuring an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force that caters to typists seeking ease and comfort during extended typing sessions. This makes it particularly suitable for individuals who prefer a gentler touch while still enjoying the linear characteristics of a smooth keystroke. On the other hand, the WS POM+ switch emphasizes a buttery-smooth keystroke that enhances the tactile sensation during use, creating an engaging typing experience. While the Silent Sakura leans towards being light and effortless, the WS POM+ may provide a more substantial and luxurious feel during operation due to its material and design.
In conclusion, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, with the former emphasizing a quiet, gentle typing experience and the latter delivering a rich, satisfying auditory feedback along with a smooth keystroke. Your choice ultimately boils down to whether you prioritize a serene environment or a more tactile and resonant sound while typing. Each has its unique appeal, ensuring you can find a suitable match for your keyboard needs, allowing you to tailor the experience to your style and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch ultimately boils down to your typing preferences and environment. If you are looking for a super quiet experience, perhaps for a shared workspace or a home office where you want to minimize distractions, the Silent Sakura’s gentle typing feel and whisper-quiet operation make it an excellent choice. It's particularly suited for lighter typists who favor a softer touch and desire a serene atmosphere for typing. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more tactile and resonant sound when typing, alongside a slightly firmer feel with its 55-gram bottom out force, the WS POM+ will deliver a more prominent "thock" sound and a satisfying keystroke that many find enjoyable for both typing and gaming. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a smoother, more robust typing experience. Ultimately, consider your sound preferences, typing force, and the setting where you frequently use your keyboard to make the best choice for your needs.
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