HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. Wuque Studio WS POM+
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ offer distinct advantages for typists seeking a linear experience. The Silent Sakura - 53g is designed for those who value a whisper-quiet operation, evoking the tranquil sound of gentle raindrops with each keystroke. With a balanced 53g bottom-out force, it is perfect for users who prefer lighter tactile feedback and a satisfying, smooth keypress for long typing sessions. On the other hand, the WS POM+ stands out with its all-POM construction, providing a rich, satisfying "thock" sound that enhances the typing experience while still maintaining a buttery-smooth keystroke. This switch appeals to those who may appreciate a bit more auditory feedback while enjoying the fluidity of a linear switch. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+, it's crucial to note the distinct characteristics of their top housings. The Silent Sakura uses nylon for its top housing, which is known for its softer and more sound-absorbent qualities. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, allowing for a unique tactile experience that is both rounded and muted. In contrast, the WS POM+ utilizes POM for its top housing, which also offers a notable sound profile that is deep and muted, albeit slightly different in tone due to the varying properties of the material. Both materials evoke a more subdued auditory response, suggesting that typists could experience a similarly enjoyable acoustic environment when using either switch.
Moving to the bottom housings, the Silent Sakura employs polycarbonate, while the WS POM+ opts for POM. The polycarbonate material is sharper and more resonant, leading to a higher-pitched sound profile that complements the deeper tones of the nylon top. This contrast enhances the overall auditory experience in the Silent Sakura, making the sound more crisp and clear, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing in the WS POM+ reinforces the similarly muted sound profile of the top housing, resulting in a unique auditory experience that is coherent and lower in pitch. Despite their differing bottom housings, both switches provide a satisfying audible feedback and can achieve a delightful typing environment tailored to users who prioritize sound quality.
Ultimately, the key takeaway is that while the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and Wuque Studio WS POM+ utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, these differences allow each switch to contribute uniquely to the typing experience. The nylon and polycarbonate combination in the Silent Sakura creates a well-rounded and resonant sound, while the consistent muted tones of both nylon and POM in the WS POM+ lead to a specialized, deep auditory profile. When it comes to performance, users can expect a delightful typing feel and sound from either option, as each switch's material composition affects the sound, feel, and bottom-out response differently, allowing for a personal preference to emerge based on auditory and tactile sensations.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch with the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, it becomes clear that they share similarities in actuation force but differ slightly in bottom out force. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally suited for users who prefer a lighter touch, which is beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming stints. However, the Silent Sakura has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the WS POM+ has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while both switches offer a light actuation, the WS POM+ provides a marginally firmer push feel when fully depressed. Consequently, the Silent Sakura is the lighter switch overall, appealing to those who prefer a gentler typing experience, whereas the WS POM+ leans towards a more substantial feel, catering to users who appreciate a heavier switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch, the Silent Sakura has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS POM+ features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you choose the Silent Sakura, you will experience a deeper keypress, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback, which can be appreciated by those who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the WS POM+, with its shorter travel distance, may be favored by gamers seeking quicker response times, as the reduced distance allows for faster actuation. Ultimately, if you enjoy a deeper typing experience, the Silent Sakura is the better choice, while those who lean towards speed and responsiveness might prefer the WS POM+.
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 Wuque Studio WS POM+ comes in at $3.90.
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 excels in providing a remarkably quiet typing experience that truly resembles the soothing sound of raindrops. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a discreet setup without sacrificing the tactile nature of typing. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch offers a deeper, more resonant "thock" sound signature, which can evoke a sense of satisfaction with each keystroke. Although both switches deliver a satisfying experience, they cater to different preferences, with the Silent Sakura leaning towards silence and subtlety, while the WS POM+ embraces a more pronounced auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g is characterized by its balanced 53g bottom-out force, catering to typists who appreciate a light yet satisfying keystroke. It’s designed for a smooth and responsive experience, allowing for effortless typing over long periods. On the other hand, the WS POM+ boasts a remarkably buttery-smooth keystroke that enhances the overall tactile experience. While both switches deliver a pleasant typing experience, the Silent Sakura emphasizes lightness and ease, whereas the WS POM+ focuses on an ultra-smooth sensation that can make extended typing sessions feel even more enjoyable.
In conclusion, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Silent Sakura focuses on providing a silent, light, and gentle touch, making it ideal for quiet environments. Conversely, the WS POM+ emphasizes a deeper sound and an ultra-smooth keystroke, appealing to those who enjoy a more tactile and audible experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize silence and subtlety or a pronounced sound profile with a smoother feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS POM+ linear switch depends largely on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a silent typing experience, perhaps for a shared workspace or late-night use when noise could be disruptive, the Silent Sakura's whisper-quiet operation is ideal. Its 53g bottom-out force strikes a balance between being light and providing enough feedback for a satisfying keystroke, making it suitable for those who enjoy a subtler typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that delivers a deeper, more pronounced "thock" sound and a luxurious typing feel, the WS POM+ with its slightly heavier 55g bottom-out force may be more your speed. This switch provides a buttery-smooth keystroke that many enthusiasts find appealing, especially if you revel in the tactile joy of typing and don’t mind a bit of audible feedback. In the end, consider your typing environment, your sound sensitivity, and the overall feel you crave; both switches bring something unique to the table, allowing you to find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard experience.
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