Gateron Beer vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both offer unique features that cater to specific preferences. The Gateron Beer stands out for its translucent green design, lightweight feel, and stepped tactility that provides a subtle typing experience. With a characteristic clacky sound, the Beer switch is ideal for those who enjoy a light, easy-to-press key with a distinct tactile response. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura boasts a snappy response and buttery downstroke that strikes a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. With a mild and neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakura switch appeals to those seeking a smoother typing experience. 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
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Beer and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches share many similarities, as both feature polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Beer utilizes polycarbonate for the bottom housing, which continues to contribute to a clear and resonant sound profile. In contrast, the Purple Sakura features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Gateron Beer and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches affects the overall sound and feel of typing on these switches. With the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing, users can expect a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Sakura will create a deeper and fuller sound. The impact of the bottom housing material is especially noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, as seen with both switches' polycarbonate top housing creating a sharper and crisper sound profile.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Beer and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches both feature polycarbonate top housing that produces a similar sharp and high-pitched sound profile, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct overall sound experiences. The Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the different qualities of each housing material can help users choose the switch that best fits their typing preferences and desired sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is clear that the Beer is lighter with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Purple Sakura is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Beer provides a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Purple Sakura offers a more substantial feel with a heavier push, appealing to those who prefer a stronger typing experience. Both switches provide distinct options for users looking for specific weight preferences in their keyboards. The actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. The Beer switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more substantial feeling when typing. However, the Purple Sakura switch's slightly shorter travel distance may be preferred by those who appreciate a more responsive and quick keypress. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively similar travel distance, making them suitable options for individuals looking for a balance between speed and depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Beer tactile switch is known for its characteristic clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound that adds a unique auditory experience to typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of environments and preferences. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, but if you prefer a lively and percussive sound, the Beer switch may be more to your liking.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for being easy-to-press and offering a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. Additionally, its stepped tactility provides a unique typing experience that some users may find appealing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users. The snappy response of the Purple Sakura switch adds a touch of liveliness to typing sessions. If you prefer a more responsive and effortless typing experience, the Purple Sakura switch may be the better choice for you.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch provides a clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, while the Purple Sakura switch offers a neutral sound profile and buttery, snappy feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, you can choose between the lively and sharp characteristics of the Beer switch or the smooth and approachable qualities of the Purple Sakura switch. Ultimately, both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that you'll get excellent results with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a lighter touch, the Beer with its 50-gram bottom out force may be your best choice. The Beer also offers a unique clacky sound signature and easy-to-press, stepped tactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a buttery, snappy typing experience, the Purple Sakura with its 60-gram bottom out force is worth considering. The Purple Sakura also provides a mild, neutral sound and a balanced tactility that may appeal to those looking for a more versatile switch. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
