HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and actuation force. The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g stands out for its whisper-quiet operation, providing a serene typing experience akin to soft raindrops falling on a window. With a balanced 53g bottom-out force, it caters to typists seeking a light and satisfying keystroke, making it ideal for late-night work sessions or quiet environments where noise is a concern. In contrast, the Gateron Type S, part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" / SLAY series, offers a heftier 65g bottom-out force that appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback. Its neutral yet deeper acoustic profile strikes an ideal balance for users looking for a rich auditory experience without being overly disruptive. Both switches offer distinct advantages, catering to different typing preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gateron Type S switches both feature nylon as their top housing material, which leads to similarities in sound characteristics. The nylon construction contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. This quality minimizes harsh vibrations and creates a more muted auditory experience. As both switches utilize nylon in their top housings, users can expect a comparable tactile feel, as well as a reduction in sharp sounds. Consequently, when typing on either switch, one will notice that both offer a pleasant and rounded auditory sensation, making them a suitable choice for those who prefer quieter operation in their mechanical keyboards.
In contrast, the Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gateron Type S diverge in their bottom housing materials, which significantly influences the overall sound profile. The Silent Sakura switch features a polycarbonate bottom housing, known for its stiffer composition that produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This creates a more resonant typing experience, particularly beneficial for users who enjoy feeling the nuances of each keystroke. The translucency of polycarbonate also allows for better RGB lighting effects, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. Meanwhile, the Type S employs nylon for its bottom housing, which, similar to its top housing, contributes to a deeper and rounder sound. This difference suggests that while both switches exhibit some similarities in the upper end of their auditory profile, the overall sound experience can differ due to the unique qualities of their respective bottom housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of nylon and polycarbonate materials in the Silent Sakura - 53g, contrasted with dual nylon in the Gateron Type S, highlights the importance of housing materials in dictating sound characteristics. Users seeking a more vibrant and resonant typing experience may gravitate toward the Silent Sakura due to its polycarbonate bottom housing, while those desiring a consistent, muted sound profile may prefer the Gateron Type S. Despite these distinct differences, the shared nylon material in the top housings creates a baseline of similarity that allows users to enjoy a tactile and satisfying typing experience across both switches. As a result, an understanding of these differences and similarities provides valuable insight into selecting the right switch for individual preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, there are distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its medium-light feel. In contrast, the Gateron Type S linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which provides a more substantial typing experience favored by those who enjoy a firmer push. Overall, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option while the Type S is the heavier one, indicating that users who prefer a softer keystroke will find the Sakura more beneficial, whereas those seeking a stronger tactile feedback may opt for the Gateron switch.
Travel distance
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch both have an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you'll feel the same distance of movement from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance contributes to a comparable tactile experience when typing or gaming, allowing for a consistent feel across both switches. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness when using either the Silent Sakura or the Type S switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g comes in at $3.50, whereas the Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70.
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 linear switch is celebrated for delivering a whisper-quiet typing experience that evokes the gentle sound of raindrops falling against a window. This characteristic makes it ideal for users who require minimal noise, such as those working in shared spaces or at night. Conversely, the Gateron Type S switch possesses a more neutral sound profile that leans towards a deeper acoustic signature, producing a subdued yet pleasantly balanced auditory experience. While it does generate a sound when typing, it is not jarring and maintains a level of discretion suitable for various environments. Overall, while both switches aim to minimize noise, the Silent Sakura is designed for those seeking extreme quietness, while the Type S strikes a balance between sound and performance.
When considering the feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch is specifically made to provide a light, yet satisfying keystroke, appealing to typists who favor an effortless experience. This switch features a perfectly calibrated bottom-out force of 53g, allowing for a comfortable and smooth typing session without straining the fingers. In contrast, the Gateron Type S switch is characterized by its 65g bottom-out force, catering to users who appreciate a more pronounced tactile feedback when typing. This additional weight can provide a sense of control, making each keystroke feel deliberate. Thus, while the Silent Sakura emphasizes lightness for ease of use, the Gateron Type S offers a weightier feel that some may find more engaging.
In conclusion, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and Gateron Type S linear switches cater to distinct preferences while offering linear action. The Silent Sakura excels in providing a quiet and breezy typing experience with a focus on a lightweight feel, making it perfect for those who prioritize low sound levels. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S combines a slightly deeper sound signature with a more substantial keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a firmer tactile response. Depending on your personal typing style and environment, you can achieve rewarding results with either option, ensuring a satisfying experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you value a whisper-quiet typing experience and prefer a lighter keystroke that still feels satisfying, the Silent Sakura is an excellent choice, especially in settings like libraries or shared workspaces where noise might be an issue. Conversely, if you enjoy a weightier feel and a more neutral sound signature, along with the assurance of consistent, smooth keystrokes thanks to the switch's contemporary factory lubing, the Gateron Type S will likely serve you better. Its medium-heavy actuation force suits heavier typists or gamers who appreciate a more deliberate keypress, as well as those who prefer a more pronounced acoustic character. In the end, consider the balance of force, sound, and tactile feedback that best aligns with your typing habits, ensuring that your keyboard experience is both comfortable and enjoyable.
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