HMX Silent Sakura - 43g vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offer distinct advantages tailored to different typists. The Silent Sakura, with its ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, is celebrated for creating a whisper-quiet typing experience that allows for a focused environment, making it an excellent choice for light typists and those who prefer a serene workspace. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) appeals to users who enjoy a more substantial feel under their fingertips, featuring a unique PA12 top housing that not only enhances acoustic properties but also delivers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance when the keys are pressed. While both switches belong to the linear category, catering to smooth keystrokes devoid of tactile feedback, they reflect different priorities in typing comfort and sound profile. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches share a commonality in their top housing materials, both utilizing nylon. This choice of nylon is significant as it serves to create a deeper and fuller sound profile upon typing. The inherent properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, enable it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. Consequently, users can expect a rounder and duller acoustic experience with both switches. This similarity in the top housing material ensures that the typing sound and feel during keystrokes will exhibit comparable qualities across both models, enhancing user satisfaction in terms of auditory feedback.
In contrast, the bottom housing materials of the two switches differ significantly. The Silent Sakura - 43g utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which is known for its rigid construction that leads to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material accentuates higher frequencies, contributing to a clearer and more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) employs nylon for its bottom housing, mirroring the sound profile created by its top housing, and resulting in a deeper and more rounded bottom-out sound. This fundamental difference in bottom housing materials plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall auditory experience, particularly at the moment keys are struck and when they bottom out.
When considering the combined effect of the materials in both switches, it becomes apparent that the Silent Sakura - 43g leans towards a sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance due to its polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Xinhai (Heavy) maintains a cohesive deeper tone through its dual nylon composition. As a result, while both switches can yield satisfying typing experiences, the Silent Sakura is likely to be favored by those who prefer a crisp sound with pronounced high notes, while the Xinhai will appeal to users who favor a more muted and enveloped auditory experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will hinge on personal preferences regarding sound profiles and typing sensations, with both promising excellent performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Sakura requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, in contrast to the Xinhai's heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This difference in weight may appeal to users who prefer a softer touch when typing or gaming, allowing for longer sessions without fatigue. When it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Sakura has a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Xinhai's bottom out force is considerably heavier at 62.5 grams. Ultimately, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, making it ideal for those who favor a less strenuous typing experience, whereas users seeking a more substantial feel may lean towards the heavier Xinhai switch.
Travel distance
The HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offer differing travel distances that cater to distinct preferences among users. With a travel distance of 4 mm, the Silent Sakura presents a more traditional feel, providing a deeper keypress that some users may find more satisfying and robust. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, which can lead to quicker actuations, making it more appealing for gamers who prioritize responsiveness. While both switches are designed for linear operation, the Silent Sakura's longer travel distance may feel more substantial, whereas the Xinhai provides a more immediate and abrupt feedback. Therefore, if you favor a classic typing experience with a fuller keypress, the Silent Sakura would be the optimal choice, while the Xinhai would suit those who prefer a snappier and more efficient action.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) 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 (Heavy) for $2.99.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g switch is renowned for its exceptionally quiet operation, creating an auditory experience akin to soft raindrops falling against a window. This makes it ideal for work environments where noise reduction is paramount, allowing typists to engage in long sessions without disturbing those around them. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch is designed to produce a unique acoustics profile, characterized by a distinctly crisp and higher-pitched resonance due to its PA12 top housing and POM stem. While the Xinhai's sound is more pronounced, it maintains a level of sophistication that can still be considered subtle. Both switches, however, will ultimately produce varying sound results depending on the keyboard build, including factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, meaning that individual experiences may differ.
Regarding feel, the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g offers an ultra-light 43g bottom-out force, making it incredibly responsive and suitable for light typists who favor quick, effortless keystrokes. This creates a smooth, linear feel with little resistance, allowing for a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch provides a more substantial feedback with its heavier design, catering to those who prefer a firmer keystroke. This switch’s composition (including the sturdy POM stem) contributes to a more defined and precise typing sensation, appealing to users looking for a blend of stability and sophistication in their typing dynamics.
In conclusion, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches cater to different preferences but brilliantly address the needs of various typists. The Silent Sakura excels in delivering a hush-quiet, effortless typing experience, ideal for environments demanding discretion, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more pronounced feel with its heavier resistance and crisp acoustics. Ultimately, selecting between these switches will come down to personal preferences regarding sound and feel, ensuring both types can provide satisfying experiences in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 43g linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you are someone who values a calm and quiet workspace, perhaps due to frequent late-night typing sessions or working in shared environments, the Silent Sakura's soft actuation and minimal sound will suit you perfectly. Its lightweight 43g bottom-out force makes it especially ideal for light typists who prioritize a seamless typing experience without the distraction of loud keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feel and a bit of resistance to help guide your fingers, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its 62.5g bottom-out force may be your best bet. This heavier switch provides that satisfying feedback while still allowing for quick keystrokes, making it suitable for fast-paced work or gaming where precision is key. In essence, your choice depends on whether you crave a lighter, quieter typing experience or a heavier, more pronounced tactile feel.
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