HMX Silent Sakura - 53g vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can greatly affect your typing experience, and two popular options are the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), both of which fall into the linear switch category. The Silent Sakura switches are designed to deliver an ultra-quiet typing experience, ideal for those who appreciate a serene environment while working or gaming. With a balanced bottom-out force of 53g, these switches provide a gentle yet satisfying keystroke that typists often find enjoyable. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more substantial feel, designed for users who prefer a firmer actuation. Its unique PA12 top housing not only complements its heavier build but also ensures a softer sound profile, while the POM stem lends a crisp resonance that many users appreciate. Both switches offer distinct advantages – the Silent Sakura for those prioritizing quietness and a light touch, and the Xinhai (Heavy) for those who enjoy a more robust typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) both feature nylon as their top housing material, which means they share similar sound characteristics that make for a unique typing experience. Both switches produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, which helps absorb sound waves more effectively than harder plastics. This feature contributes to a duller and rounder sound, providing a pleasing auditory experience when typing. Therefore, users can expect comparable acoustic results when engaging with the tactile qualities of the keys on either switch, making them suitable for those who prioritize sound dampening during their typing sessions.
However, the differences between the two switches become apparent in their bottom housing materials. The Silent Sakura - 53g utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which is known for its rigidity and clearer sound profile. This choice of material enhances the overall typing experience by creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound that resonates more distinctly. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) maintains a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing. With nylon's inherent properties, users of the Xinhai switch will experience a deeper sound that carries the rounded quality throughout the key press and release. Consequently, while the Silent Sakura offers a more balanced sound profile, the Xinhai leans towards a more consistent and softer auditory feedback.
In practical terms, the combination of materials leads to different experiences when typing on each switch. The Silent Sakura's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a distinct contrast to the nylon top, creating a more nuanced sound profile that enhances its overall aural clarity. Conversely, the Xinhai (Heavy), with both sections made of nylon, delivers a cohesive and uniform sound experience that may be preferred by users looking for a smooth and consistent typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference, as the Silent Sakura provides a brighter sound while the Xinhai offers a more enveloping tonal character. Despite these differences, both switches are capable of delivering an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Sakura requires an actuation force of 45 grams and has a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light and making it more suitable for users seeking a lighter experience ideal for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch demands a heftier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, classifying it as medium and catering to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Consequently, the Silent Sakura is the lighter option, while the Xinhai is the heavier choice, appealing to different user preferences based on their desired typing engagement.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Silent Sakura features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the most traditional length and offers a deeper, more tactile feel that some users may prefer for comfortable typing. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, catering more towards gamers and those who value quicker response times in their keystrokes. This shorter travel distance can create a more abrupt feel, potentially appealing to those who want a faster acting switch. Therefore, while the Silent Sakura provides a more profound typing experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) allows for speedier key presses, making it clear that users must choose based on their personal preference for depth versus responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
The HMX Silent Sakura - 53g 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 linear switch is characterized by its whisper-quiet operation, akin to the soft patter of raindrops against a window. This makes it an excellent choice for environments where noise reduction is paramount, as it allows for an unobtrusive typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch offers a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance that, while still maintaining a subdued tone due to its PA12 top housing, provides a more sophisticated auditory experience. Both switches prioritize quieter sounds, but the Xinhai’s acoustics might lend a slightly more pronounced auditory feedback, depending on the setup.
When it comes to tactile feel, the Silent Sakura - 53g is designed to deliver a balanced yet light keystroke, with a bottom-out force of 53g that caters to typists who appreciate a delicate touch while still desiring a satisfying engagement. This allows for prolonged typing sessions without undue fatigue. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) features a heavier actuation, which contributes to a firmer and more substantial feel beneath the fingers, appealing to those who prefer a more robust typing experience. While both switches are linear in nature, the feel of each provides distinct handling that aligns with different typing preferences.
In summary, both the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches offer unique qualities suited to different typists. The Silent Sakura focuses on providing a quiet and gentle typing experience with a balanced actuation, while the Xinhai (Heavy) delivers a more pronounced tactile feel and slightly richer sound dynamics. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on whether you prefer a lighter, quieter experience or a firmer, more resonant feel during your typing sessions. Each switch, with its own characteristics, allows for a tailored typing experience that can significantly enhance your keyboard use.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the HMX Silent Sakura - 53g linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. If you seek a typing experience that is quiet and light, the Silent Sakura - 53g is an excellent option, providing a smooth keystroke that allows for extended typing sessions without the distraction of sound. This switch is ideal for office environments or shared spaces where noise levels must be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more substantial feel and don’t mind a bit of sound, the Xinhai (Heavy) with its higher actuation force of 62.5 grams offers a more tactile feedback and can aid in precision typing, making it great for both gaming and fast-paced typing tasks. The POM stem also contributes to a distinct sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback that some users may find appealing. Ultimately, your choice comes down to whether you prioritize a quiet, lighter typing experience with the Silent Sakura or a more robust, weightier feel with the Xinhai.
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