HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference, particularly between linear and tactile options. The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is an exemplary choice for those who relish a whisper-quiet typing experience, likened to the gentle patter of raindrops. With a well-balanced 53g actuation force, these switches offer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, catering perfectly to typists who prioritize a light touch without sacrificing satisfaction. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 presents an enticing alternative as a tactile switch, known for its pronounced and exhilarating tactile bump combined with a plush, satisfying bottom-out feel. This switch, with its muted sound profile, delivers an engaging typing experience while maintaining a serene environment. Whether you seek the fluidity of a linear switch like the Silent Sakura or the distinctive feedback of a tactile switch like the U4, both options bring unique characteristics to your typing repertoire. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gazzew U4 switches differ markedly in their housing materials, particularly in the composition of their top sections. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing, renowned for its soft and sound-absorbing properties. This material contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, enabling a more muted and rounded auditory experience during typing. In contrast, the U4 uses a proprietary Gazzew blend, often termed "boba plastic," which also emphasizes sound absorption. The essence of both materials is to create a sound profile that is rich and deep, suggesting that despite the differences in terminology and branding, they can produce somewhat similar auditory results owing to their soft nature.
The bottom housings of these switches reveal another layer of distinction. The Silent Sakura employs polycarbonate, recognized for its rigidity and translucence, producing a crisper, sharper sound profile that stands out when paired with RGB lighting. In juxtaposition, the U4’s bottom housing mirrors its top housing's properties, also utilizing a proprietary blend that is softer. While this would typically lead to a more subdued sound profile, it differentiates the tactile response and auditory characteristics notably from the Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom. This diversification in materials reveals how each switch might affect the typing experience both ergonomically and acoustically.
Ultimately, the disparities and similarities between the Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gazzew U4 switches illustrate a broader narrative about how housing materials influence switch performance. While the nylon top housing of the Silent Sakura offers a distinct dampening effect, the richness provided by the Gazzew blend in both housings could yield comparable acoustic outcomes. However, the sharper bottom-out feel of the Silent Sakura, courtesy of its polycarbonate construction, contrasts with the velvety signature of the U4's softer materials, leading to a different tactile feedback. The integration of each switch's materials influences the combined auditory experience; thus, users may find that although they may achieve similar sound results, the tactile feedback and overall sensation differ markedly during use.
Weight
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch share the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning users can expect similar initial resistance when triggering a keystroke with either switch. However, the bottom-out force differs significantly between the two: the Silent Sakura’s bottom-out force is at 53 grams, while the U4's is 62 grams. This discrepancy indicates that the U4 switch, being heavier in terms of bottom-out force, provides a more substantial feeling when pressed completely down, making it suitable for those who prefer a firmer typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option overall, especially appreciated by users who favor longer typing sessions or gaming due to its medium-light profile. Ultimately, if you desire a balance between light actuation and a softer bottoming out, the Silent Sakura would be a better fit, while the U4 appeals to those looking for a more pronounced tactile feedback and heavier pressure during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we find that the Silent Sakura features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the U4 has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Silent Sakura offers a more traditional and deeper feel when pressed, which some users may appreciate for its satisfying feedback. In contrast, the U4's shorter travel distance can provide quicker response times, making it a preferable option for gamers who seek speed and efficiency. Ultimately, those who enjoy the depth of key presses may gravitate towards the Silent Sakura, while users favoring rapid actuation might opt for the Gazzew U4 due to its more immediate response.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g is designed to create a whisper-quiet typing experience, akin to the soft patter of raindrops, making it ideal for those who prefer a serene environment. In comparison, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch also boasts a subdued auditory quality, characterized as muted and low-pitched. These features contribute to a soft, less intrusive sound when typing, which can be a significant advantage for users working in shared spaces or seeking a calmer atmosphere. While both switches are optimized to minimize noise, it’s important to remember that the final sound experience can still be influenced by the specific keyboard build and keycap choice.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g is marketed as a switch that offers a balanced experience with a 53g bottom-out force, aimed at providing a light but responsive keystroke without a detailed description of its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 is known for its sharp tactile bump, delivering strong feedback that is easily perceptible with each keystroke. This distinct tactile experience can enhance typing precision, particularly for those who thrive on tactile sensations for added feedback during use. Therefore, while the Silent Sakura leans towards a smoother, linear feel, the U4 presents a more pronounced tactile experience, making the choice largely dependent on personal typing style preferences.
In summary, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g offers a whisper-quiet sound profile paired with a light, responsive keystroke, catering to users who enjoy a nuanced typing experience without pronounced tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch combines a muted, low-pitched sound with a sharp and distinctly felt tactile bump. Each switch has its unique strengths, appealing to different types of users based on their auditory and tactile preferences. The decision between them hinges largely on whether one values a more linear and smooth experience or a defined tactile sensation during typing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke and prefer a quieter workspace, the Silent Sakura - 53g is an excellent option. Its medium-light actuation at 53 grams makes it suitable for long typing sessions, reducing finger fatigue while still providing a satisfying feel. This switch is particularly ideal for those who often work in shared spaces or prefer a more subdued sound profile. On the other hand, if you enjoy tactile feedback and appreciate a pronounced bump with each keypress, the Gazzew U4 is the better choice. With its medium actuation force of 62 grams and sharp tactile response, it delivers an engaging typing experience that's perfect for both gaming and typing when you want to feel each keystroke. Additionally, the U4's muted and low-pitched sound profile ensures that your typing remains discreet without the clackiness that some mechanical keyboards can have. Ultimately, your decision should reflect whether you prioritize a whisper-quiet experience or an energetic tactile sensation—both options can enhance your keyboard experience in unique ways.
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