HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both stand out as exceptional options, yet they cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Silent Sakura switch is expertly designed to provide a whisper-quiet typing experience that evokes the soothing sound of raindrops, making it an ideal choice for those who favor a lighter, yet satisfying keystroke with a bottom-out force of 53g. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switch emphasizes responsiveness and precision with its innovative design, which eliminates silicone dampeners for a more natural feel that doesn’t compromise on quietness. While the Silent Sakura leans towards a gentle and cushioned experience, the WS Silent Linear aims to offer a sharper, more nuanced typing feel without the noise. Both switches cater to users seeking a silent typing experience, but the nuances in their design may influence your choice. 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both utilize nylon for their top housing, which provides significant advantages in terms of sound profile. The softness of nylon allows for a deeper and fuller sound, as it absorbs sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. This characteristic results in a typing experience that is rounded and satisfying, making both switches comparable in terms of auditory feedback. Users can expect a similar sound when typing with either switch, as both will exhibit those deeper tones attributable to the notable acoustic properties of nylon.
In stark contrast, the bottom housing materials used in these switches lead to a divergence in their acoustic characteristics. The Silent Sakura employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiff nature. This rigidity contributes to a clearer and more resonant auditory experience, which can enhance the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear utilizes a nylon bottom housing that creates a sound that is consistent with its top housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound. The varying bottom materials lead to differing acoustic signatures, with the Silent Sakura providing more brightness while the WS Silent Linear opts for a more muted tone.
Ultimately, while both switches share the same nylon top housing, the differences in bottom housing composition result in a unique typing experience for each. The Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom gives it a distinct sharpness, making it suitable for those who appreciate a crisper feedback when typing. On the contrary, the WS Silent Linear remains rooted in a more cohesive sound profile with its all-nylon design. For users looking to achieve specific auditory sensations, the selection between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound clarity versus depth, yet both will deliver satisfying experiences rooted in their shared nylon top.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch with the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, we see notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent Sakura has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch suitable for prolonged typing sessions or gaming, as the lighter force can reduce finger fatigue. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear features an unknown actuation force but has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. This heavier bottom out force suggests a more substantial typing experience that may be favored by users who enjoy a greater tactile feedback. Overall, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the WS Silent Linear corresponds to a heavier feel due to its higher bottom out force. If the actuation force of the WS Silent Linear were to be known and matched the Silent Sakura’s actuation force, typists could expect similar experiences in key actuation, but the heavier bottoming out would provide a fundamentally different sensation at the end of the keystroke.
Travel distance
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference indicates that the Silent Sakura offers a more traditional and deeper feel, which may appeal to users who appreciate the tactile feedback associated with a longer key press. Conversely, the WS Silent Linear caters to those seeking quicker response times, making it a preferable option for gamers who prioritize speed and efficiency in their keystrokes. Therefore, if you prefer a more responsive experience, the WS Silent Linear would be the ideal choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, for users who favor a more pronounced key press, the HMX Silent Sakura would be more suitable, providing a more substantial depth when typing.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20.
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 HMX Silent Sakura - 53g switch is designed for a whisper-quiet typing experience, which evokes the soothing sound of gentle raindrops against a window. While specific sound characteristics for the Silent Sakura are not detailed, one can infer from its purpose that it would share a similarly muted acoustic profile as the WS Silent Linear. The WS Silent Linear is categorized as neutral, muted, and subdued, effectively combining characteristics that minimize the usual mechanical keyboard noise. This suggests both switches prioritize a quieter operation, making them suitable for use in both home and office environments without creating disruptive clatter.
In terms of feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g is engineered to provide a light yet satisfying keystroke, promoting a gentle typing experience. While this switch lacks explicit descriptors of its tactile feedback, it is likely designed with a smooth actuation similar to the WS Silent Linear, which is characterized as mild. The mild nature of the WS Silent Linear offers an approachable typing experience, balancing comfort and response without being overly pronounced. This suggests that both switches aim for a user-friendly feel that caters to a wide range of typists.
In conclusion, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches promise a serene typing experience complemented by low sound levels. While the specific qualities of the Silent Sakura aren’t fully detailed, it can be assumed that its performance will be very similar to the WS Silent Linear due to their shared objectives of quiet operation and comfortable feedback. Users seeking a peaceful typing environment along with responsive performance would find both of these options appealing.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the environments in which you’ll be using your keyboard. If you prefer a lighter key feel with a gentle and soothing typing experience, the Silent Sakura may be the right fit for you. With its medium-light 53g bottom-out force, you’ll find it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, especially in quieter environments where the soft sounds mimic raindrops, allowing you to work in peace without disturbing others. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more tactile response with a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, the WS Silent Linear switch would be a better option. This switch has an unparalleled mix of precision and a moderate noise profile, making it suitable for both office settings and at-home use. Its neutral sound and mild feel strike a balance that can accommodate various typing styles while maintaining a satisfying keystroke experience. Therefore, align your choice with your desired typing sensation and acoustic environment to ensure you make the most of your mechanical keyboard experience.
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