HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preferences play a significant role, particularly between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, a tactile switch. The Silent Sakura switches are celebrated for their whisper-quiet operation, evoking a serene ambiance reminiscent of gentle raindrops, making them an ideal choice for those who value a distraction-free typing environment. With a 53g bottom-out force, they cater to typists who prefer a light, yet satisfying keystroke that promotes prolonged comfort during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches are characterized by their prominent tactile feedback and a delightful "thock" sound upon bottoming out, delivering a luxurious typing experience that many enthusiasts crave. The lush tactile bump not only enhances the user’s connection to the keyboard but also provides auditory satisfaction. Each switch offers distinct advantages, appealing to different typing styles and environments; however, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.

By the numbers

HMX Silent Sakura - 53g Linear

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB, it's evident that the top housing materials contribute significantly to their sound profiles. The Silent Sakura - 53g utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer properties which help absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and rounder auditory experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx RGB features a proprietary plastic blend often referred to as "boba plastic," which also boasts soft characteristics, similarly producing a rich and deep sound profile. While the two materials differ in composition, they share the common trait of being less rigid than their counterparts, leading to a softer sound signature in both switches when typing.

The bottom housing of these two switches highlights a more noticeable contrast between the materials. The Silent Sakura - 53g utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffer nature. This results in a clear and resonant sound profile that complements the softer top housing. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB features its trademark proprietary Gazzew blend for its bottom housing, which also produces a rich and deep sound profile but with a potentially different resonance compared to the polycarbonate. Therefore, while both switches aim for a vibrant auditory experience, the Silent Sakura - 53g tends to strike a balance between cushion and clarity, whereas the U4Tx RGB focuses on warmth throughout both top and bottom.

In terms of overall performance and typing experience, the characteristics of each housing material can lead to interesting results. For example, the Silent Sakura - 53g's nylon top housing contributes a smoother release sound when the key is released, while the polycarbonate bottom provides distinct bottom-out feedback. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB’s top and bottom housings, though both soft and rich in sound, may lead to a more uniform auditory experience. Regardless of their differences, both switch types provide an enjoyable, tactile experience with distinct auditory profiles due to the consideration of their housing materials. Thus, users looking for versatile, enjoyable typing experiences may find satisfaction in either model, while enjoying subtly different acoustic flavors.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch to the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, it’s clear that they cater to different preferences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent Sakura switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, which positions it in the medium-light category. This lighter feel is appealing for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces fatigue over time. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which classifies it as medium-heavy, but its actuation force remains unspecified. This likely indicates that the U4Tx requires a firmer press to trigger a keystroke, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier feel. Consequently, users seeking a lighter touch will gravitate towards the Silent Sakura switch, while those desiring more resistance will favor the U4Tx RGB switch.

Travel distance

The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch differ in their travel distances, which can significantly impact user experience. The Silent Sakura boasts a travel distance of 4.0 mm, providing a traditional feel that many users appreciate for its hearty depth. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which caters to those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, often favored by gamers for its quicker actuation. While the Silent Sakura offers a fuller bottoming-out sensation, the U4Tx RGB allows for a more abrupt and potentially faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference, with the Silent Sakura being the longer option and the U4Tx RGB offering a more modern, shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch is characterized by its exceptionally quiet operation, reminiscent of gentle raindrops, providing an almost serene auditory experience. This makes it an excellent choice for environments where noise reduction is paramount, such as shared workspaces or quiet home offices. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch offers a distinct sound profile, featuring a deep "thock" upon bottoming out combined with a quieter topping out. This results in a more pronounced auditory feedback moment while still maintaining a level of discretion during use, making it particularly appealing for users who appreciate both tactility and auditory richness in their typing experience. It is important to note that the actual sound produced will also be influenced by factors like the keyboard plate and keycap materials.

When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g provides a light and smooth linear action, allowing for swift keystrokes with minimal resistance. Its balanced 53g bottom-out force ensures a satisfying experience for typists who prefer a relatively lightweight touch. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is crafted with a sharp tactile bump that delivers a noticeable feedback upon actuation. This tactile response enhances the typing experience by allowing users to feel when their keystrokes have registered, which can be particularly beneficial for those who favor a more engaged and active typing style.

In conclusion, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches cater to different preferences, yet each offers unique advantages. The Silent Sakura excels in creating a quiet and gentle typing experience, ideal for environments where noise is an issue, while the U4Tx RGB provides a richer sound and tactile feedback, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy a more pronounced typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound dampening or tactile richness, but both switches can offer satisfying results tailored to your typing style.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when selecting between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences in typing experience and sound. If you prioritize a quiet typing session without sacrificing feel, the Silent Sakura is an excellent choice. Its medium-light 53g bottom out force provides a gentle, satisfying keystroke, making it ideal for typists who enjoy a serene environment, such as in a shared workspace or during late-night writing sessions. On the other hand, if you fancy a more tactile feedback and enjoy a richer sound profile while typing, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switch might be the better option for you. With its medium-heavy 65g actuation force, it delivers a defined tactile bump paired with a deep “thock” sound on bottoming out, appealing to those who prefer a more pronounced feedback with each keystroke. Thus, consider your typing style and surroundings: opt for the Silent Sakura for quiet comfort or the U4Tx RGB for tactile delight and auditory satisfaction.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Silent Sakura - 53g Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4Tx RGB Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more