HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gazzew U4T stand out for their unique characteristics and user experiences. The HMX Silent Sakura switches are meticulously designed for those who value a whisper-quiet typing environment, delivering a soft, satisfying keystroke with a balanced 53g bottom-out force. This makes them an excellent choice for typists who enjoy a smooth, linear feel without the interruption of loud click sounds, perfect for quiet settings like offices or libraries. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switches offer a captivating blend of tactile feedback and auditory pleasure. Known for their bassy ‘thock’ sound and sharp tactility, these switches ensure that each keystroke resonates with a satisfying pop, appealing to users who revel in the sensory satisfaction of typing. While the Silent Sakura caters to those seeking a serene typing experience, the U4T is ideal for individuals looking for a dynamic and engaging keystroke interaction. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gazzew U4T switches both utilize distinct housing materials that contribute significantly to their overall sound profile and typing experience. The Silent Sakura features a nylon top housing, known for its softer texture which facilitates a deeper, fuller sound. This contrasts with the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also described as "boba plastic." Like nylon, this blend is intended to provide a rich sound profile, suggesting that users can expect a warm auditory experience from both switches when typing. Despite their differing materials, the common attribute of softness in both tightens the comparison, indicating that users of either switch will likely enjoy a similar depth and richness in the sound produced during typing.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences become more pronounced. The Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, characteristic of stiffer plastics. This results in a clear and resonant sound when the key bottoms out. In comparison, the U4T's bottom housing, composed of the same Gazzew proprietary blend, echoes the softer traits of its top housing, delivering a rounded and plush auditory output. While the Silent Sakura leans toward a brighter, crisper overall sound due to its polycarbonate, the U4T opts for a consistent softness across both housings that creates a uniform yet rich auditory experience.
In summary, while both switches share similarities in meat of their upper housings, the Silent Sakura - 53g sets itself apart with its polycarbonate bottom housing, whereas the Gazzew U4T maintains a cohesive soft character across both top and bottom. Consequently, users might notice that the Silent Sakura offers a sharper sound profile upon bottoming out while pulling in the warmth of the nylon during key release. On the other hand, the U4T offers a more harmonious sound signature that remains consistently rich in texture. Ultimately, if individual preferences lean towards deeper, absorbing sounds, users of either switch may find satisfaction, although the characteristics defining their experiences will vary with each model's unique material composition.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Sakura has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, which makes it suitable for users seeking a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the U4T features a bottom out force of 65 grams, regarded as medium-heavy, but its actuation force is unknown. This implies that while the U4T may provide a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force, the lack of specified actuation force complicates a direct comparison in that category. Consequently, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option overall, appealing to those who prefer less resistance, while the U4T leans towards a heavier feel that could be favored by individuals who enjoy a more tactile and resistant typing experience. If the actuation force of the U4T were available, it might offer further insight into how closely these switches could deliver comparable results in their respective contexts.
Travel distance
Both the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity means that users can expect similar key feel and actuation results when pressing down on either switch. The equal travel distance ensures that both switches will provide a comparable tactile experience, making them suitable for users who prefer a consistent keystroke length. Whether you opt for the linear Silent Sakura or the tactile U4T, you can anticipate a consistent distance when typing or gaming.
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 U4T 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switches provide a remarkably hushed typing experience, evoking the calming sound of raindrops gently tapping against a window. This makes them an excellent choice for those who favor a quieter environment, as they excel in minimizing noise during use. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T tactile switches produce a notably bassy and thocky sound profile, characterized by a deep, satisfying ‘thock’ on each keystroke. This auditory feedback caters to users who enjoy a more pronounced sound experience, emphasizing the rich, low-frequency tones that accompany each press. Ultimately, while their sound profiles are quite different, both can deliver an enjoyable experience depending on personal preferences and the overall setup, such as the keyboard and keycaps one chooses.
In terms of feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g switches are designed to offer a balanced keystroke feel that is light yet satisfying, although specific tactile feedback characteristics are not clearly defined. This makes them an appealing option for typists who seek a smooth linear experience without excessive resistance. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switches feature a sharp tactile bump that provides strong and crisp feedback, allowing users to distinctly feel each keystroke. This pronounced tactility can significantly enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction for those who appreciate a more interactive experience with their keyboard.
In conclusion, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and Gazzew U4T switches cater to different typing preferences, with the former ensuring a quiet, smooth linear experience and the latter delivering a tactile and auditory-rich feedback. The choice between these switches ultimately hinges on whether the user prioritizes a mellower sound environment or seeks a more engaging and dynamic tactile experience. Both switches will bring unique qualities to your typing experience, so understanding these differences will help you select the one that best aligns with your typing style and environment preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a quieter experience, perhaps due to a shared workspace or late-night typing sessions, the Silent Sakura is an excellent choice. Its medium-light actuation force of 53 grams lends itself to easy key presses, making it a great option for prolonged typing periods where comfort and stealth are crucial. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more engaging typing experience with tactile feedback and a satisfying sound, the Gazzew U4T is likely to be more your style. Its heavier 65-gram actuation force and pronounced tactile bump provide a rewarding feel and auditory satisfaction akin to the 'thock' of a deeper tone, perfect for those who relish a more robust and interactive keyboard feel. Ultimately, consider what makes your typing more enjoyable, whether that’s the soft elegance of silent strokes or the rich resonance of tactile clicks.
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