HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two intriguing options are the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, each catering to distinct user needs. The Silent Sakura, with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, is designed for typists who treasure a serene typing experience, as it mimics the gentle sound of rain tapping on windows—ideal for quiet settings or those who prefer a feather-light touch. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile sets itself apart with its medium tactility and innovative engineering that eliminates traditional silicone dampeners, providing a silent yet crisp feedback. This makes it well-suited for office environments where tactile engagement and noise control are both essential. While the Silent Sakura focuses on an ultra-smooth and tranquil typing feel, the WS Silent Tactile strikes a balance between subtlety and responsiveness. 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 Tactile share a commonality in their top housing material, nylon. Both switches leverage the acoustic properties of nylon, resulting in a notably similar typing experience. This choice in housing material leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, largely due to nylon's relatively soft composition. As a result, when typing on either switch, users can expect an absorption of sound that generates a rounder and more pleasant auditory feedback. The preference for nylon in both cases emphasizes a continuity in producing a smooth and muted typing experience, making these switches particularly appealing for those who appreciate a quieter keypress.
However, the bottom housing of the two switches presents a stark contrast that has a significant impact on the overall sound profile. The Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, a material known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper and crisper sound. In contrast, the WS Silent Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, which aligns with the properties of its top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound characteristic across the entirety of the switch. While both utilize nylon on top, the differing bottom materials mean that the bottom-out sound and feel will vary significantly, contributing to the tactile differentiation between the two switches. This architectural choice plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience, distinguishing the switches despite their similar nylon top layers.
The combined effect of the housing materials will influence not only the auditory experience but also the tactile feedback provided to the user. The Silent Sakura - 43g, with its polycarbonate bottom, will resonate differently than the WS Silent Tactile, where the nylon housing absorbs sound more effectively. Thus, while both switches share a similar soft and muted sound profile from the nylon top, the distinct bottom housings contrast in their acoustic contributions, creating unique typing characteristics. Users looking for a specific sound signature or tactile feedback will find that these differences manifest during typing, making it important to consider both the top and bottom material choices when evaluating the overall switch performance.
Weight
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch presents a notable difference with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams and an unspecified actuation force. This indicates a medium-heavy feel, appealing to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. As a result, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the WS Silent Tactile is heavier, catering to varying user preferences. If both switches had similar actuation forces, users could expect to achieve comparable results in typing speed and comfort, although the heavier bottom out force of the WS Silent Tactile would still contribute to a noticeably different tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch, the differences are clear. The Silent Sakura has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile measures 3.5 mm. This means that the HMX Silent Sakura provides a longer travel distance, which can be beneficial for users who appreciate a more substantial key feel and depth during typing. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile caters to those who prefer a quicker response, making it more suitable for gamers looking for faster actuation. While both switches offer distinct experiences, individuals leaning towards responsive and rapid actions might gravitate towards the WS Silent Tactile for its reduced travel distance, while those who enjoy a more traditional and hearty keystroke may prefer the Silent Sakura.
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 Silent Tactile comes in at $4.20 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
When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches, the Silent Sakura excels in creating an almost ethereal auditory experience. Its design aims to produce a whisper-quiet typing experience reminiscent of soft raindrops, making it an excellent choice for quiet settings or those who prefer discretion. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile features a neutral sound profile that balances moderation with muted tones, ensuring it is suitable for both beginner and advanced users alike. While it also minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, it does so without relying on silicone dampeners, offering a sound that still maintains crispness amidst tranquility.
In terms of tactile feel, the Silent Sakura provides a light and smooth typing experience that is likely to appeal to users who enjoy a nearly effortless keystroke. Its 43g actuation force promotes an easy, almost floating sensation as fingers glide over the keys, making it particularly appealing for users who type rapidly. The WS Silent Tactile, conversely, offers a more pronounced tactile feedback with its medium tactility. The invigorating character of this switch provides users with snappy and reactive feedback, contributing to a more engaging typing experience. Its design strikes a balance, providing a prominent yet not overwhelming tactile response, while still remaining approachable with its milder characteristics.
In conclusion, both the Silent Sakura - 43g and the WS Silent Tactile serve distinct preferences for users seeking a quiet typing experience. While the Silent Sakura is likely better suited for those who prioritize an ultra-light, barely-there touch in a softly soundscape, the WS Silent Tactile presents a more pronounced tactile engagement that remains serene. If a user prefers a lighter touch without tactile feedback, the Silent Sakura may be preferable, while those seeking a blend of quietude and responsive tactility would find their ideal match in the WS Silent Tactile. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will largely depend on what typing experience resonates most with individual requirements and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and environment considerations. If you find yourself gravitating towards a lighter touch and prefer a quiet, smooth, and almost serene typing experience, the Silent Sakura - with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force and whisper-quiet sound profile—will likely be your best bet. It’s ideal for those who thrive in a peaceful workspace or enjoy long typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you appreciate a tactile feedback that enhances your typing experience yet still demands quiet operation, the WS Silent Tactile might be the right choice for you. With its medium-heavy 63.5g actuation force and nuanced tactile feel—offering prominent yet comfortable feedback—this switch provides a satisfying typing experience that strikes a balance between silence and responsiveness, making it suitable for both home and more structured office environments. Ultimately, your decision hinges on whether you favor the light, smooth feedback of the Silent Sakura or the invigorating and subtle tactility of the WS Silent Tactile.
Mentioned in this article
