HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often comes down to personal preference and typing style. Two popular options in the linear switch category are the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Dareu Snow, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different users. The Silent Sakura is celebrated for its whisper-quiet operation, evoking the serene sound of raindrops while providing a balanced 53g bottom out force. This makes it an excellent choice for typists who appreciate a lighter feel without compromising on satisfaction. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch impresses with its innovative POK material, which not only enhances durability but also delivers a deeper, thocky sound signature that some users find incredibly satisfying. While both switches promise a smooth typing experience, their distinct auditory and tactile feedback sets them apart. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Dareu Snow, the differences in their housing materials become apparent in terms of sound and feel profile. The Silent Sakura - 53g features a nylon top housing, known for its softer plastic composition that results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic allows the switch to absorb more sound, reducing harshness and creating a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Snow utilizes a POK top housing, which, despite having a slightly higher coefficient of friction than nylon, is praised for its exceptional smoothness and durability. The sound produced by the POK material tends to be clackier, imparting a more distinct auditory feedback, which contrasts sharply with the subdued nature of the Silent Sakura's nylon top.
In terms of bottom housings, both switches employ distinct materials that impact their overall sound and feel. The Silent Sakura - 53g’s bottom housing is made of polycarbonate, a material known for producing a sharper, crisper sound. This is largely due to polycarbonate's stiffer composition, which enhances the clarity of sound and resonates well when combined with RGB lighting. The Dareu Snow, however, opts for a nylon bottom housing, providing that same deeper sound characteristic inherent to nylon. As a result, while the Silent Sakura can generate a bright sound profile through polycarbonate, the Snow delivers the classic, full-bodied sound that is often sought after by keyboard enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the diverging materials between the top and bottom housings in these two switches lead to a blend of sound and tactile experiences. The Silent Sakura's combination of a nylon top housing and polycarbonate bottom creates an interesting hybrid of muted high frequencies and pronounced lower tones. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow's use of POK on top and nylon below allows for a smooth and durable typing experience alongside a harmonious sound profile. Both switches, despite their material differences, can provide satisfying results; users will find each switch delivers unique auditory and tactile feedback, yet still captures the essential qualities desired in a high-performance keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch to the Dareu Snow linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Silent Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for users who appreciate a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Dareu Snow has a stronger actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option overall, while the Snow switch is the heavier choice. This difference in force characteristics means that users of the Silent Sakura may experience less fatigue during prolonged use, whereas those who opt for the Snow switch may enjoy a more tactile feedback and resistance when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, the differences are quite pronounced. The Silent Sakura boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option that offers a deeper and more tactile experience. In contrast, the Dareu Snow features a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, which aligns with the contemporary trend favoring quicker response times, particularly beneficial for gamers seeking faster actuation. If you're looking for a switch that feels more substantial with each keystroke, the Silent Sakura is the better choice. Conversely, if you prefer a more responsive feel that minimizes travel time, the shorter Snow switch may suit you better. Overall, the Silent Sakura offers a longer travel distance while the Dareu Snow provides a shorter one, catering to different user preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g 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
In terms of sound, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch is characterized by its whisper-quiet typing experience, evoking the serene image of raindrops gently tapping on a window. This inherently silent nature makes it ideal for environments where noise reduction is essential, allowing for focused typing without the distraction of clicky sounds. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch has a deeper sound signature, described as 'thocky,' meaning it produces a rich and satisfying low-pitched sound akin to a soft thud when pressed. This unique sound profile, coupled with a neutral response, makes it versatile for various settings, offering a pleasing auditory experience without being overly disruptive. While there are distinct differences between the two, the Snow's low-pitched thock is a stark contrast to the Sakura's subtle whisper.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g delivers a balanced tactile experience suited for typists who appreciate a lighter touch with its 53g bottom-out force. The smooth, linear action ensures uninterrupted keystrokes, which are ideal for prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch is described as 'bouncy,' providing a lively, elastic feedback that enhances the typing experience by offering a sense of rebound with each press. This spring-like sensation can make typing feel more dynamic and engaging, especially for users who enjoy a more responsive switch. Though their feel differs—the Sakura leaning towards a softer touch and the Snow offering a more active feedback—both can provide satisfying results depending on personal preference.
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Dareu Snow switch boils down to your priorities regarding sound and feel. If you require a quiet typing experience that promotes concentration, the Silent Sakura is your best bet. However, if you prefer a more audible, deep sound paired with an engaging bouncing feel, the Dareu Snow would be an excellent choice. Both switches cater to distinct preferences, ensuring that whether you lean towards silence or a vivacious typing atmosphere, you can enjoy a tailored mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Dareu Snow linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you are looking for a typing experience that is both light and incredibly quiet, then the Silent Sakura - 53g is the ideal option. Its whisper-quiet operation allows you to work or type in shared spaces without disturbing those around you, making it a great choice for office environments or late-night work sessions. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback and a slightly firmer bottom out force, the Dareu Snow switch will likely suit you better. Its deeper, thocky sound and bouncy feel provide a satisfying tactile experience that can enhance both gaming and typing, especially if you enjoy the sensation of a responsive key press. Ultimately, both switches cater to different priorities in your typing experience: the Silent Sakura focuses on stealth and ease, while the Snow emphasizes a richer sound and dynamic feedback. Consider your specific needs and typing environment to make the best choice for you.
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