HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. Everglide Sticky Rice (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Silent Sakura - 53g and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer unique experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Silent Sakura switches excel in providing a whisper-quiet typing experience, perfect for those who thrive in serene environments or share spaces with others. With a balanced actuation force of 53g, these linear switches deliver a satisfying keystroke that feels light yet robust. On the other hand, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches are celebrated for their delightful balance and neutral sound signature, making them a favorite among enthusiasts seeking that coveted "thock" sensation. Featuring a super smooth keystroke and a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble, these hall effect switches provide an engaging tactile sensation without sacrificing performance. While both switches offer distinct advantages, one focusing on silent operation and the other on a refined auditory feedback, it's essential to dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your typing style and environment.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) each employ distinct materials for their top and bottom housings, leading to notable differences in sound profiles. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic nature. This characteristic allows the switch to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a muted auditory experience. Conversely, the Sticky Rice (V2) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which lends a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to the keystrokes. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate enhances resonance, creating a clearer sound that makes the typing experience feel more distinct and pronounced.
While the Silent Sakura employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, facilitating the same sharper sound profile typically associated with this material, the Sticky Rice (V2) adopts a nylon bottom housing. This introduces a contrasting element, as the nylon material infuses a rounder and more muffled sound quality, but also contributes to a softer bottom-out feel. Thus, each switch's competency in delivering sound quality is informed by the combination of materials used; where the Silent Sakura offers full-bodied sounds attributable to its nylon top and polycarbonate bottom, the Sticky Rice creates a textured experience with its polycarbonate top and a rounded, muffled feel from its nylon bottom.
In practical terms, this means that users seeking a cohesive sound experience can achieve similar results across both switches, albeit through different mechanisms. The interaction between the haptic feedback from the bottom housing and the auditory experience from the top housing generates an intricate balance of tactile and auditory responses. For example, both switches can deliver unique soundscapes that appeal to different preferences; the Silent Sakura will excel in deeper tones while the Sticky Rice can be more favorable for those who appreciate pronounced sounds in their typing rhythm. Thus, although the materials differ, both switches artfully combine their attributes to produce engaging typing experiences tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch with its actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams to the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, we observe distinct differences in their characteristics. The Silent Sakura is on the heavier side with its actuation and bottom out forces, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users might prefer for feedback and control. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) is lighter, making it easier to press down, which is beneficial for those who type for extended periods or enjoy a lighter touch during gaming sessions. While both switches aim to provide a responsive feel, the Silent Sakura's higher forces cater to users seeking a firmer push, while the Sticky Rice (V2) is ideal for those who favor lightness and ease of activation. Overall, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) would be the better choice.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch measures 4 mm, while the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference highlights the distinct preferences users might have based on their typing or gaming styles. The Silent Sakura provides a more traditional and deeper press, ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) offers a shorter travel distance, catering to gamers looking for quicker response times. Users who prefer a more responsive action may favor the Sticky Rice for its efficiency, while those seeking a more substantial feel might lean towards the Silent Sakura. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference regarding travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sticky Rice (V2) for $6.79.
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 switches create a remarkably soft and subtle auditory profile; they are engineered to provide a nearly silent typing experience reminiscent of gentle raindrops. This makes them an excellent choice for environments where noise is a concern, such as shared workspaces or libraries. Contrastingly, the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) switches produce a more pronounced sound that leans into the satisfying "thock" that many enthusiasts admire. While still maintaining a neutral sound signature, these switches allow for a more audible and enjoyable keystroke, appealing to users who appreciate a bit more acoustic feedback without being overly disruptive. It’s important to keep in mind that the overall sound can vary based on board and keycap choice, which can enhance or mellow both switches' unique characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g switches offer a light yet satisfying keystroke thanks to their 53g bottom-out force, making them ideal for typists who prefer a smooth, linear experience that feels responsive without being overly taxing. In contrast, the Sticky Rice (V2) boasts an exceptionally smooth keystroke as well, aided by a dustproof stem that minimizes wobble and enhances performance. While the Silent Sakura switches aim for a serene experience, the Sticky Rice switches lean towards a more tactile and refined sensation, striking a balance that caters to users looking for both comfort and engagement during their typing sessions.
In conclusion, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) offer unique yet compelling experiences tailored to different preferences. The Silent Sakura focuses on providing an extremely quiet and smooth operation, perfect for workplaces or quiet settings, while the Sticky Rice delivers a tactile satisfaction with a resounding "thock" for those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback. Depending on one’s desired typing atmosphere and tactile preferences, either switch can provide a fulfilling mechanical keyboard experience, making both worthy options for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical switches.
Conclusion
To summarize, when deciding between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Everglide Sticky Rice (V2) hall effect switch, your specific needs and preferences will be crucial in making the right choice. If you value a whisper-quiet typing experience with a moderately light keystroke, the Silent Sakura is an excellent option. It's particularly suited for environments where noise reduction is essential, such as offices or shared spaces, allowing you to type comfortably without disturbing others. On the other hand, if you seek a smooth and tactile typing experience paired with a satisfying "thock" sound, the Sticky Rice (V2) will likely be your best bet. With its light bottom-out force and refined feel, it caters to enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback while still enjoying a silky keystroke. Ultimately, the decision boils down to whether you prioritize a silent operation or a more tactile sound and touch, guiding you to the switch that best fits your typing style and environment.
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