HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow both present compelling options for typists seeking a linear experience, yet they cater to differing preferences and use cases. The Silent Sakura switches are celebrated for their whisper-quiet operation, making them ideal for those who favor a peaceful workspace; their light 43g bottom-out force appeals particularly to light typists who appreciate a more delicate touch while typing. In contrast, the WS Yellow switches introduce a delightful bounce thanks to their unique 22mm double-stage spring, offering a satisfying tactile experience for enthusiasts who enjoy a bit of resistance during keystrokes. The familiar sound signature of the WS Yellow, derived from its carefully crafted materials, can evoke a sense of nostalgia for seasoned users. While both switches provide a smooth and fluid typing experience, the choice ultimately boils down to your specific needs—whether you lean towards the serene silence of the Silent Sakura or the playful responsiveness of the WS Yellow. 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
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow both incorporate nylon as the material for their top housing, which leads to similarities in the typing experience they offer. The use of nylon imparts a deeper and fuller sound profile to both switches due to the material's softer plastic properties, which absorb more sound than harder alternatives. This absorption quality results in a rounder sound, creating a more muted auditory experience, especially when compared to switches with stiffer housings. Consequently, users can expect a smooth and pleasant typing sensation from both the Silent Sakura and the WS Yellow, especially during long typing sessions where the sound and feel of each keystroke has a significant impact on user comfort.
However, the differences between their bottom housings highlight how varying materials can influence the overall auditory experience of a switch. The Silent Sakura features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is notably stiffer than nylon. This choice creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, resulting in a crisper auditory feedback when bottoming out. In contrast, the WS Yellow utilizes nylon for its bottom housing as well, which similarly absorbs sound and contributes to a softer, deeper auditory profile. Consequently, while typing on the Silent Sakura, users may notice a more resonant and articulate sound when they hit the key. On the other hand, the WS Yellow will maintain a cohesive sound quality that aligns with its softer nylon materials throughout the entire key press.
Ultimately, despite the differences in bottom housing materials, these two switches share foundational characteristics that ensure the user's typing experience remains consistent in terms of sound and feel. With the Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom housing offering a brighter resonance and the WS Yellow maintaining a deeper profile with its nylon, each switch's performance can complement various personal preferences. Users seeking a more nuanced sound may gravitate toward the Silent Sakura, while those preferring a uniform, muted auditory experience may find satisfaction with the WS Yellow. In either case, these switches reflect the versatility and diverse outcomes that can arise from carefully chosen housing materials, demonstrating the intricate balance between sound, feel, and user preference within mechanical switch design.
Weight
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option that is well-suited for extended typing sessions or gaming due to the reduced effort required. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, indicating a medium-light characteristic; however, its actuation force is unspecified. This uncertainty leaves us without a definitive comparison concerning the sensitivity of the actuation. Ultimately, if the actuation force of the WS Yellow were to be heavier than the Silent Sakura's 37 grams, it would provide a more substantial push feel, appealing to those who prefer a bit more resistance. As it stands, the HMX Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the WS Yellow is the heavier switch, providing different experiences based on user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, the Silent Sakura features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Yellow has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Silent Sakura offers a deeper press, which may appeal to users who prefer a more tactile experience with a greater depth, providing a more pronounced sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the WS Yellow, with its shorter 3.8 mm travel, may be favored by gamers seeking quicker response times and enhanced speed during gameplay. Therefore, if you prioritize a more responsive typing experience, the WS Yellow could be the preferred choice, while the Silent Sakura may cater to those who enjoy a fuller, more substantial feel when typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.50. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Silent Sakura - 43g and WS Yellow.
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 remarkably quiet typing experience, reminiscent of raindrops tapping against a window. This switch prioritizes a whisper-quiet operation, making it suitable for users in shared spaces or those who simply prefer an unobtrusive sound profile. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is known for its familiar sound signature, which enthusiasts appreciate. While it may not be as silent as the Silent Sakura, the WS Yellow offers a well-rounded auditory experience that falls between quiet and slightly more pronounced, appealing to typists who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback without the clickiness of tactile switches.
When considering feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g switch is tailored for a gentle and lightweight typing experience, as it has an ultra-light bottom out force. This makes it a great choice for lighter typists looking for ease and comfort. On the other hand, the WS Yellow linear switch is characterized by its creamy, mild, and polished feel. The creamy texture provides a smooth typing sensation, akin to gliding fingers over keys, facilitated by either factory lubrication or specific materials used in its construction. The mild characteristics of the WS Yellow ensure that the typing experience is approachable, while the polished quality indicates a refined and smooth key travel, making both switches enjoyable in their own right but targeting different typing preferences.
Overall, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches each cater to distinct typing experiences. The Silent Sakura excels in providing a nearly silent operation, ideal for environments requiring minimal noise, while the WS Yellow offers a delightful blend of responsiveness, smoothness, and auditory satisfaction. Both switches offer lightweight designs, ensuring a seamless typing experience, yet their sound profiles and tactile sensations diverge, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. Whether you prioritize silence or a polished tactile response, both switches are designed to enhance your typing journey.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switches depends largely on your typing preferences and usage environment. If you are a light typist or someone who values quietness in your workspace—perhaps working in a shared environment or simply enjoy serene typing—then the Silent Sakura - 43g is the ideal choice for you. Its ultra-light 43g bottom out force combined with a whisper-quiet operation creates a typing experience reminiscent of soft raindrops, allowing for distraction-free work or gaming. On the other hand, if you gravitate towards a medium-light feel and appreciate a switch that offers a bit more resistance, the WS Yellow switches may serve you better. Their 53g bottom out force provides a satisfying bounce and a creamy, polished typing experience that many enthusiasts cherish. The sound signature of the WS Yellow also aligns well with users who prefer a familiar yet pleasant auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, whether you prioritize quietness and light touch or a more satisfying tactile response will guide you in selecting the switch that best suits your needs.
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