HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both present appealing options, particularly for enthusiasts seeking a quiet yet responsive typing experience. The Silent Sakura is tailored for light typists with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, creating a gentle, whisper-quiet environment akin to raindrops tapping against a window. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a soft touch and minimal sound disruption. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque Studio elevate the typing experience with innovative design and responsiveness. These switches feature discreet cutouts in their stem railings, effectively reducing noise without relying on silicone dampeners, offering a unique balance of tranquility and tactile precision. While the Silent Sakura emphasizes a serene typing experience for lighter touch users, the WS Silent Linear caters to those who prefer a more direct response without compromising on sound reduction. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear share a commonality in their top housing material, both utilizing nylon, which is renowned for its sound profile advantages. Nylon, being a softer plastic, effectively absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience when typing. This characteristic significantly contributes to the subdued and rounded sound profile that both switches exhibit. Consequently, if users appreciate the auditory feedback from the Silent Sakura, they will likely find similar satisfaction with the WS Silent Linear, as both switches deliver comparable acoustic performances due to their identical top housing material.
Conversely, the bottom housings of the two switches diverge significantly in material choice, which leads to contrasting sound profiles. The Silent Sakura's bottom housing is constructed from polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that generates a sharper and crisper sound. This material choice produces a more resonant experience when bottoming out, enhancing the auditory feedback and overall typing sensation. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear opts for nylon in its bottom housing, which aligns with the softer sound absorption qualities of the top housing. As a result, while the WS Silent Linear maintains a consistent sound profile with its nylon materials, the Silent Sakura's use of polycarbonate provides a noteworthy distinction in auditory crispness.
Ultimately, the differences in housing materials of the Silent Sakura - 43g and the WS Silent Linear lead to varied typing experiences, particularly in terms of sound feedback. While both switches offer a fuller sound profile due to their nylon top housings, the Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom housing introduces a level of clarity and resonance that the WS Silent Linear's nylon bottom cannot match. Thus, using both switches will yield a similar auditory experience at certain points, yet they deliver unique sensations and tonal qualities during different segments of keystrokes, with the Silent Sakura providing a more defined sound when bottoming out, while the WS Silent Linear maintains a rounder feel throughout.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, a significant difference in their actuation and bottom out forces is evident. The Silent Sakura features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, classifying it as a lighter option, making it ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience for long sessions at work or during gaming. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear’s bottom out force is measured at 63.5 grams, accompanied by an unspecified actuation force. This combination suggests a heavier feel, appealing to users seeking substantial feedback and a stronger push while typing. Therefore, if one values a lighter touch for prolonged use, the Silent Sakura would be the better choice, while those who lean towards a more robust typing experience might opt for the WS Silent Linear.
Travel distance
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference may influence the overall typing experience and typing speed. The Silent Sakura switch offers a deeper feel, making it potentially more satisfying for users who appreciate that extra depth and a more substantial keypress. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or those seeking quicker response times, as it allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, if you're looking for a more responsive typing experience, the WS Silent Linear would be the better pick, whereas if you prefer a fuller keypress, the Silent Sakura would be advisable.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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
When it comes to sound, the Silent Sakura - 43g is celebrated for creating a serene typing experience, evoking the soothing sound of gentle raindrops. This characteristic makes it particularly appealing to those seeking a quiet environment. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear also emphasizes reduced noise but achieves this through its unique design elements such as discreet cutouts in the stem railings. Its acoustic profile is described as neutral, muted, and subdued, producing a soft, quiet sound that is less intrusive than traditional mechanical switches. While both switches prioritize a quiet typing experience, the Sakura leans more towards a gentle, calming sound, whereas the WS Silent Linear presents a more restrained and versatile audio profile, making both suitable for office or home environments, albeit with slightly different auditory experiences.
In terms of feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g's characteristics are not explicitly stated, leaving an unknown aspect of its tactile experience. Meanwhile, the WS Silent Linear is defined as a mild switch, providing a gentle typing experience that strikes a balance between softness and responsiveness. This makes it approachable for typists of all levels, as it offers a comfortable feedback without being overwhelming. Therefore, while the exact tactile feedback of the Silent Sakura remains unspecified, users can expect the WS Silent Linear to provide a smooth, gently responsive typing sensation that caters well to those seeking a mild experience.
In conclusion, both the Silent Sakura - 43g and WS Silent Linear switches excel in delivering a quiet typing environment, catering to different preferences in sound and feel. The Sakura offers a uniquely gentle auditory experience akin to raindrops while the WS Silent Linear provides a more muted, versatile sound profile. On the tactile side, while details about the Silent Sakura's feel are not available, the WS Silent Linear ensures a mild experience that is perfectly suitable for all typists. Ultimately, opting for either switch will provide a serene typing experience, and the choice will hinge on whether one favors the auditory calm of the Sakura or the well-balanced characteristics of the WS Silent Linear.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and environment. If you are a light typist who values a whisper-quiet experience, prioritizing tranquility over tactile feedback, the Silent Sakura’s ultra-light 43g bottom-out force is ideal. It creates a gentle typing environment, perfect for office settings or shared spaces where noise reduction is paramount. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly more substantial feel and want responsive keystrokes with a moderate actuation force, the WS Silent Linear switches, with their 63.5g bottom-out force, offer an excellent blend of muted sound and precision without the use of silicone dampeners. This makes them suitable for both office use and personal typing where you might appreciate a more tactile yet still quiet experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style and the noise tolerance of your surroundings; both switches have their distinct advantages depending on what you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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