HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the TTC Speed Silver offer distinct advantages that cater to different typing preferences. The Silent Sakura, characterized by its whisper-quiet operation and a balanced 53g actuation force, is ideal for users who crave a serene typing experience devoid of noise distractions, making it perfect for quiet environments or late-night work sessions. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver is engineered for speed and responsiveness, featuring a shorter travel distance that facilitates rapid keystrokes—an excellent choice for gamers or typists who prioritize precision and efficiency. While both switches fall under the linear category and provide smooth keystrokes without tactile feedback, their unique qualities cater to different needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the TTC Speed Silver switches both employ different materials for their respective top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound characteristics. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing that is softer than the polycarbonate used in the Speed Silver. This nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a muted acoustic experience. As a result, the typing experience on the Silent Sakura is characterized by a richer auditory feedback that resonates slightly more, making it ideal for users who prefer a less jarring sound while typing.
In contrast, the Speed Silver switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness allows for clearer resonance, leading to a more pronounced auditory experience when keystrokes are engaged. The translucency of the polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switch, particularly for those who enjoy RGB lighting effects, as it allows the shine of the lights to come through effectively. Therefore, users seeking an engaging and sharp sound will find the Speed Silver's configuration particularly appealing.
Interestingly, while the top housings of these switches are different, the bottom housings present a reversal in the material used; the Silent Sakura uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing to complement the nylon top, while the Speed Silver features nylon for its bottom housing, counterbalancing the polycarbonate top. This results in a unique interplay of sound characteristics between the two switches, where the Silent Sakura's softer bottom housing enhances the overall muted experience, and the Speed Silver's nylon bottom contributes a fuller, rounder sound to the sharpness of its polycarbonate top. Consequently, users can expect a contrastive yet complementary experience depending on their choice, giving them the ability to achieve similar typing results while catering to different auditory preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means users can expect a similar responsive feel when typing. However, their bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Silent Sakura reaching a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Speed Silver hits a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This minor discrepancy suggests that while both switches provide a light actuation, the Speed Silver may offer a slightly more substantial feel upon bottoming out, which could be preferable for those who enjoy a firmer typing experience. In terms of overall weight, both switches are geared towards users seeking a medium-light touch, appealing to those who prefer comfort during extended typing sessions. Thus, while the actuation forces align, the 2-gram difference in bottom out force may cater to distinct preferences in feel and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Silent Sakura features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is more traditional and may appeal to those who enjoy a fuller keypress experience. In contrast, the Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, catering to gamers or those seeking quicker response times. This means that if you prioritize rapid actuation, the Speed Silver may be the better option, while the Silent Sakura suits those who prefer a more defined and deeper keystroke. Ultimately, while both switches serve distinct preferences, they cater to users with differing needs for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch offers a remarkably quiet typing experience akin to the gentle sound of raindrops, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver switch boasts a neutral sound profile, characterized by a moderate sound level that suits a variety of uses, whether it be at home or in an office setting. Both switches may produce differing auditory experiences based on the specific keyboard assembly and keycap materials used, but the Silent Sakura is distinctly designed for silence, while the Speed Silver maintains a balanced sound that does not stand out too aggressively.
In terms of feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g provides a light yet satisfying keystroke that balances comfort and feedback; it's crafted for users who enjoy subtle tactile feedback without the interruption of noise. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch offers a mild feel that aligns with a more gentle typing experience, complemented by a polished finish that ensures smooth key travel with minimal friction. Both switches emphasize ease of use but cater to different preferences: the Silent Sakura leans towards a serene typing experience, while the Speed Silver is designed for efficiency and speed.
In conclusion, while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g prioritizes a whisper-quiet and comforting typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver focuses on delivering a rapid and neutral feel. Each switch offers unique advantages tailored to different typing environments and user preferences. Whether you prioritize silence or speed, both options will facilitate an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience, inherently allowing for a personalized approach to productivity or gaming.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch depends primarily on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a silent typing experience that provides gentle feedback, the Silent Sakura is ideal for you, especially in quiet environments like libraries or shared workspaces. This switch, with its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, is perfect for those who enjoy a softer touch, making typing both serene and satisfying. On the other hand, if speed is your priority—whether you’re gaming or simply favor a fast-paced typing style—the TTC Speed Silver is the better choice. With a slightly firmer bottom out force of 55 grams and a reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick actuation, fueling rapid keystrokes without the hassle of bottoming out heavily. In essence, if you seek a smooth and polished typing experience with a mild sound profile that caters to a range of uses, go for the Speed Silver. Conversely, if your goal is quiet comfort that still feels engaging under your fingertips, the Silent Sakura will serve you well.
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