HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile illustrates the diverse landscape of switch options. The Silent Sakura switch, known for its whisper-quiet operation, strikes a balance with its 53g bottom-out force, making it an excellent choice for those who value a serene typing environment, such as in shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch caters to users who relish a more pronounced tactile feedback with a heavier 70g bump, offering an engaging typing experience characterized by a satisfying "thocky" sound. This tactile switch can invigorate your typing rhythm, perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate that auditory and physical feedback. Whether you prefer the subtlety of the Silent Sakura or the expressive nature of the WS Heavy Tactile, both switches have their unique allure. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both utilize nylon for their top housing, which provides a consistent auditory experience that emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile. This common material choice is notable because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and more subdued acoustic character. As such, users of both switches can expect a similar tactile feedback during typing and enjoy the pleasant aural qualities that come from this nylon top—whether one is using the Silent Sakura or the WS Heavy Tactile.
On the other hand, the differences in bottom housing materials create distinct sound profiles that can affect the overall typing experience. The Silent Sakura features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is stiffer and contributes to a sharper sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile opts for a nylon bottom housing that echoes the auditory qualities of its top housing. This variation means that while the Silent Sakura may deliver a more resonant and clear sound due to the polycarbonate, the WS Heavy Tactile will produce a more rounded and subdued sound signature, reinforcing the characteristics of the nylon. Hence, the synergy between the housing materials contributes to the unique auditory experience of each switch.
Ultimately, the combination of materials leads to synergistic effects on typing feel and sound signature. While users of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g experience a multifaceted sound profile with the distinct advantages of polycarbonate and nylon, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a more uniform aura due to its complete reliance on nylon. Nevertheless, both switches are designed to perform exceptionally within their respective profiles, and their differences in material allow users to choose based on their preference for sound and tactile feedback. In instances where similar results are anticipated, users should expect the broad acoustic signature of nylon in the top housing for both switches, while also being aware of how the unique bottom housing material will further shape their typing experience.
Weight
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch present an interesting comparison in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a similar trigger response that caters to users who prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly: the Silent Sakura has a bottom out force of 53 grams, classifying it as medium-light, while the WS Heavy Tactile switches to a heavier feel with a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This means that while both switches offer ease of actuation, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option overall, ideal for those who prioritize comfort over long durations, whereas the WS Heavy Tactile may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This difference indicates that the Silent Sakura provides a more traditional feel, appealing to users who prefer the depth and tactile feedback associated with longer travel distances. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile's shorter travel distance may cater to those who enjoy quicker response times, commonly favored by gamers seeking efficiency and speed in their keystrokes. Ultimately, if you lean towards a more responsive typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile would be the suitable choice; however, if you appreciate a more substantial keystroke, the Silent Sakura would likely satisfy your preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Sakura - 53g for $2.99.
The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile 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
The sound profile of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch is engineered for a serene typing experience, delivering a gentle, whisper-quiet presence that echoes the softness of raindrops. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking to work in quiet environments or those who find traditional clicky switches too distracting. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a much more pronounced auditory experience. Characterized by a clacky, bright, and resonant sound due to its nylon housing, it provides a crisp and engaging auditory feedback that adds character to each keystroke. Users who appreciate a more vibrant and immersive soundscape will likely enjoy the WS Heavy Tactile switch over the Silent Sakura's muted acoustics.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g switch offers a light, soft touch that provides satisfying keystrokes with its balanced 53g bottom-out force. This switch caters well to typists who prefer a smooth and less physically demanding typing experience. On the opposite spectrum, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is packed with pronounced tactile feedback, showcasing a solid 70g bump that not only makes each keystroke distinctly noticeable but also cultivates a lively, invigorating sensation during typing. Users may find the bouncy and snappy nature of the WS Heavy Tactile to be extraordinarily rewarding, offering a dynamic and responsive feel that encourages extended typing sessions.
In summary, choosing between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches hinges on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback. The Silent Sakura provides a subtle, quiet touch suitable for low-volume environments, while the WS Heavy Tactile engages the user with its bold auditory and tactile presence. Ultimately, your experience may vary depending on individual typing styles and the configuration of your keyboard, but both switches promise to offer unique qualities that cater to different user needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch, your choice will largely depend on your typing preferences and environment. If you seek a serene typing experience, whether for late-night work sessions or shared spaces, the Silent Sakura switch, with its medium-light 53g bottom-out force and whisper-quiet operation, makes an excellent choice. Its smooth, linear feel ensures that each keystroke is satisfying yet unobtrusive, perfect for those who prioritize silence without sacrificing comfort. On the other hand, if you thrive on tactile feedback and enjoy a more pronounced typing experience, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is for you. With a medium-heavy 70g bottom-out force and a “thocky” sound profile, it provides a sharp tactile bump that not only enhances your typing accuracy but also delivers an engaging auditory experience. Whether you prefer a quiet, fluid typing style or one that is dynamic and reactive, both switches offer unique advantages tailored to various scenarios, ensuring that you can find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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