Gateron Aliaz vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, we find two tactile options that offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Aliaz switches are renowned for their quiet operation, making them ideal for office environments, while still providing a satisfying medium-heavy weight feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switches boast a snappy response and a smooth downstroke, striking a balance between pronounced tactility and a mild sound signature. Both switches cater to those who appreciate tactile feedback while typing, but in slightly different manners. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound compared to other housing materials. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, while the Aliaz utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, the Purple Sakura opts for a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and Sarokeys Purple Sakura impact the typing experience differently. The Gateron Aliaz, with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, offers a consistent sharp and crisp sound profile throughout key presses. The stiffness of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings contributes to a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura's combination of a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing splits the qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch. This means that users will feel the impact of the bottom housing more during key presses, resulting in a deeper sound, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and Sarokeys Purple Sakura will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, with the Aliaz providing a sharper and crisper sound profile throughout key presses due to its polycarbonate top and bottom housings, while the Purple Sakura offers a deeper and fuller sound profile with its mix of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials. Whether one prefers a clear and resonant typing experience or a duller and rounder sound will determine which switch is the better fit.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is heavier in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aliaz requires an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a more suitable option for individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches serve their purpose well, catering to different preferences based on weight and typing experience desired. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Aliaz offers a slightly deeper keypress for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Aliaz being slightly longer than the Purple Sakura. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its muted profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience suitable for quiet environments like an office. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch presents a neutral sound signature, striking a balance between actuation force and sound level that suits a variety of users and settings. Both switches provide a different auditory experience, with the Aliaz emphasizing quietness while the Purple Sakura offers a more versatile sound suitable for various usage scenarios.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined feel. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke that feels both gentle and responsive. Both switches deliver a distinct tactile sensation, with the Aliaz focusing on smoothness and refinement while the Purple Sakura emphasizes a buttery and snappy typing experience. Users can expect a different tactile feedback from each switch, tailored to their personal preferences.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz is best suited for those seeking a quiet typing experience with a substantial and polished feel, while the Purple Sakura caters to users looking for a balanced sound profile and a buttery, snappy keystroke. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose between the muted, medium-heavy feel of the Aliaz or the neutral, buttery experience of the Purple Sakura switch, ensuring a satisfying typing experience in any setting. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prefer a heavier switch with a more substantial feel and a quieter typing experience, the Aliaz switches are a great choice, especially for office settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, the Purple Sakura switches provide a delightful typing experience with a mild and neutral sound profile. Consider your typing style and surroundings when making your decision, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches lies in what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you as a typist.
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