HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Xinhai each offer unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The Silent Sakura delivers an exceptionally quiet and understated typing experience, reminiscent of gentle raindrops, making it ideal for those who prioritize a serene environment—especially beneficial for light typists who favor a soft, subtle touch with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai stands out with its distinctive PA12 top housing and POM stem, creating a bouncy, clacky, and creamy feel that resonates with a more pronounced acoustic profile, appealing to typists who enjoy tactile feedback and a lively typing experience. Both switches cater to different styles and needs, with the Silent Sakura offering tranquility and the Xinhai presenting a more dynamic flair. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Xinhai, one key similarity stands out: both utilize nylon for their top housings. This choice of material for both switches results in a similar auditory experience, characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon’s soft nature contributes significantly to this effect, as it absorbs more sound than its harder counterparts. Consequently, users can expect a muted and rounded sound when typing on either switch, allowing for a quieter and more pleasant tactile experience, whether engaging in silent typing or gaming.
However, the bottom housing materials reveal a distinct contrast between the two switches. The Silent Sakura features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound dynamic compared to the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing. This difference in plastic stiffness is crucial, as the polycarbonate's rigidity enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced during key presses. In contrast, the Xinhai’s nylon bottom housing continues the trend of producing a fuller sound, but lacks the crispness found in the Silent Sakura. Therefore, while users will enjoy a consistent and smooth typing experience from the nylon top housing in both switches, the auditory elements will diverge significantly depending on the bottom housing material.
Ultimately, while both the Silent Sakura - 43g and the Xinhai share the same top housing material, they deliver differing sound profiles due to their unique bottom housing materials. Users seeking a richer sound experience may prefer the Silent Sakura for its polycarbonate bottom, enhancing both the typing acoustics and the clarity of each keystroke. Conversely, those who appreciate a more muted auditory experience may favor the Xinhai, which maintains a consistent softness throughout its nylon construction. Overall, while the typing feel may remain similar due to the nylon top, the distinct sound characteristics of each switch will cater to different preferences, ensuring a choice that aligns with individual typing styles and acoustic desires.
Weight
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch both exhibit similar actuation forces, with both requiring 37 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This similarity means that users will experience comparable keystroke responsiveness and feel, making both switches suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons without causing excessive strain. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly: the Silent Sakura has a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Xinhai has a marginally higher bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that while both switches are light, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option overall, providing a slightly gentler bottoming out experience. For users who prefer a softer touch and lighter push feel, the Silent Sakura may be the better choice, while those who appreciate a firmer bottom out might lean towards the Xinhai.
Travel distance
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference highlights the contrasting designs of the two switches, catering to different user preferences. The Silent Sakura's longer travel distance offers a more traditional feel, ideal for those who appreciate a deeper, more tactile experience while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch, with its shorter 3.4 mm travel distance, caters to users who favor quicker response times and a more immediate feel, often preferred by gamers looking for speed and efficiency. Ultimately, users who lean towards a well-rounded and hearty depth in their key presses may prefer the Silent Sakura, while those seeking rapid actuation with less travel may find the Xinhai more appealing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g comes in at $3.50 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 it comes to sound, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is designed to provide an exceptionally quiet typing experience, akin to the gentle sounds of raindrops tapping softly against a window. This whisper-quiet operation makes it an ideal choice for environments where noise levels must be kept to a minimum. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai switch produces a more pronounced, clacky sound, characterized by its crisp, bright, and percussive nature. The sharp auditory feedback can give additional satisfaction to typists who enjoy a more audible response from their keystrokes, creating a lively atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the subdued tones of the Silent Sakura.
In terms of feel, the Silent Sakura - 43g promotes a lightweight and nimble typing experience due to its ultra-light bottom-out force of 43g. While specifics about its tactile feedback are not provided, its design is aimed at producing a smooth and unobtrusive actuation ideal for light typists. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch offers a compelling tactile experience characterized by its bounciness and creamy texture. The spring-like feedback provides a lively sensation with each keystroke, while the smooth, buttery feel enhances the overall typing experience. This combination not only ensures that each key press is engaging but also makes the transition between keystrokes feel seamless and fluid.
In summary, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Xinhai linear switch cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Silent Sakura is perfect for those who prioritize a quiet typing environment without sacrificing responsiveness, while the Xinhai appeals to users looking for an auditory and tactile engagement that enhances their typing experience. Whether you lean towards a serene or a more dynamic feel, you'll find that both switches can deliver enjoyable results based on their distinct qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you are someone who prioritizes a quiet typing experience, whether for late-night work sessions or shared office spaces, the Silent Sakura - 43g is an excellent choice, thanks to its whisper-soft actuation and ultra-light 43g bottom-out force. Its serene sound profile will keep distractions at bay, allowing you to focus on your task. Alternatively, if you enjoy a more vibrant and tactile experience with a bit of auditory feedback, the Xinhai switch may suit you better. With its slightly firmer 45g bottom-out force, the Xinhai offers a bouncy feel and a clacky sound that can enhance your typing satisfaction, making each keystroke feel more engaging. Additionally, the creamy sensation provided by the Xinhai can enhance your typing comfort, allowing for smooth and enjoyable keystrokes. Ultimately, consider your typing habits and environment—if you crave a peaceful atmosphere, go for the Silent Sakura; if you desire a lively, exciting interaction with feedback, the Xinhai will be the way to go.
Mentioned in this article
