HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When navigating the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, two intriguing options emerge: the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Jwick Taro. The Silent Sakura switches are engineered for a serene typing experience, characterized by their whisper-quiet operation that evokes the soothing sound of raindrops, along with a balanced 53g bottom-out force that appeals to typists seeking a lighter yet satisfying feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro switches offer a tactile experience with a medium level of tactility, providing a satisfying and snappy feedback alongside crisp acoustic responses with each keystroke, making them an ideal choice for those who appreciate auditory confirmation while typing. While the Silent Sakura prioritizes tranquility and ease, the Taro excels in delivering an engaging tactile and auditory response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Jwick Taro, the differences in the top and bottom housing materials play a crucial role in the acoustic and tactile experience of each switch. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer properties that produce a deeper and more resonant sound profile. This contrasts with the Taro, which utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that contributes a sharper and crisper sound. While the nylon absorbs sounds, leading to a duller auditory experience, the rigidity of polycarbonate enhances clarity and creates a more pronounced resonance. Consequently, users of the Silent Sakura may find their typing experience to be more muted and full-bodied, while Taro users can expect a brighter and more defined sonic output.
The bottom housing compositions further illustrate the distinctive characteristics of these switches. The Silent Sakura boasts a polycarbonate bottom housing, reinforcing its crisp sound profile, while the Taro has a nylon bottom housing that emphasizes a warmer tone. The use of polycarbonate in the Silent Sakura’s base contributes a clearer auditory response, making the bottom-out sound more pronounced. Conversely, the nylon in the Taro’s bottom housing results in a more rounded sound, affecting perceptions of feedback and impact during typing. These divergent bottom housings influence the overall typing sensations—Silent Sakura users might enjoy a more lively sound during keypresses, while Taro users would experience a tender and smoother feel overall.
Despite these differences, both switches can achieve notable sound quality depending on the user's preferences. The combination of nylon in one switch and polycarbonate in the other creates a unique hybrid of sensory experiences. By understanding how each housing material interacts in both the top and bottom sections, users can appreciate the characteristics brought forth by each switch. For instance, a user desiring a balanced yet rich sound could opt for the Silent Sakura, while another seeking precision and brightness might lean toward the Jwick Taro. In essence, while the material compositions differ, they ultimately cater to the nuances of typing experiences, leading to individual satisfaction based on sound preference and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are notable differences that cater to different preferences among users. The Silent Sakura has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch that provides a relatively effortless typing experience—ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Taro switch boasts a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy, although its actuation force is unknown. This heavier resistance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, potentially providing greater tactile feedback and a more deliberate keystroke. Overall, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the Jwick Taro offers a heavier alternative for users who favor a more pronounced push. These differing forces will lead to distinct typing experiences, accommodating various needs and preferences for comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, we observe a notable difference. The Silent Sakura features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with traditional preferences and provides a more substantial key feel. In contrast, the Jwick Taro has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, catering to those who may prioritize quicker response times, often favored by gamers. Given that 4 mm offers a more pronounced depth compared to the 3.7 mm of the Taro, users who prefer a hearty depth in their typing experience may opt for the Silent Sakura, while those who appreciate the snappier feedback and efficiency of shorter travel distances might lean toward the Jwick Taro.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 linear switch is designed to provide an exceptionally quiet typing experience. Its whisper-quiet characteristics make it feel almost like gentle raindrops, appealing to those who prefer minimal sound interference while they type. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch features a more pronounced acoustic signature, delivering acute and crisp clacks that add a satisfying auditory feedback during typing. This makes the Taro a more engaging option for those who enjoy auditory cues in their keystrokes. However, the overall sound experience can vary significantly depending on the choice of keyboard and keycaps used, meaning that both switches may deliver distinct sounds under different setups.
In terms of feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g offers a smooth and satisfying keystroke, as one would expect from a linear switch. It provides a balanced 53g bottom-out force that isn’t too heavy or too light, catering well to typists seeking a pleasant typing sensation without any tactile bumps to disrupt their flow. Conversely, the Jwick Taro embraces a tactile design, providing a medium level of tactility. This results in a snappy responsive feel, complemented by a "buttery" smoothness that ensures a fluid typing experience. The Taro’s stepped nature contributes to a nuanced tactile feedback that distinguishes it from its linear counterpart, making typing feel intentional and engaging, especially for those who appreciate tactile interactions.
In conclusion, choosing between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch ultimately comes down to personal preference in both sound and feel. The Silent Sakura excels in providing an ultra-quiet experience paired with a smooth keystroke, making it ideal for quieter environments or for those who prioritize stealth. Meanwhile, the Taro stands out with its appealing sound profile and engaging tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. Depending on your individual preferences for auditory and tactile sensations, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience remarkably.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch really depends on your personal typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a quiet workspace or enjoy typing in shared settings, the Silent Sakura's whisper-quiet operation will ensure minimal disruption while providing a light and satisfying keystroke feel. This makes it ideal for long typing sessions or if you're frequently typing in quiet places, such as libraries or offices. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and engaging typing experience, the Taro switch's medium-heavy actuation force and pronounced tactile bumps will cater to those who enjoy a snappy response with each keystroke. The audible clack adds character to your typing, making it suitable for home setups where sound isn't a concern, especially if you appreciate that satisfying feedback in your typing rhythm. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your specific usage scenarios—whether you favor a serene atmosphere or a lively, tactile sensation in your typing journey.
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