Gateron CM vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron CM, a linear switch, and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, a tactile switch. The CM switches offer a unique experience by featuring a full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature compared to traditional polycarbonate housings. With an impeccable factory lube job and a lengthened, dual-staged spring, typing on these switches feels effortlessly smooth and bouncy. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switches stand out for their snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced but not overpowering. While both switches offer a 'buttery' feel, the CM is characterized by a 'bassy' and 'thocky' sound, while the Purple Sakura provides a more 'mild' and 'neutral' sound signature. 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
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Overall, the Gateron CM and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches have different housing materials for both the top and bottom parts. The Gateron CM utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch uses polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to nylon. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron CM and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches aim to provide a unique typing experience. The nylon housing in the Gateron CM creates a duller and rounder sound profile, while the nylon housing in the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a similar deep and full sound experience. However, the polycarbonate top housing in the Purple Sakura switch adds a touch of clarity and resonance to the sound profile, distinguishing it from the Gateron CM. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences based on sound and aesthetic considerations.
When it comes to the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In this regard, the Gateron CM's use of nylon for both top and bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a balance between sharpness and fullness in sound. Overall, both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Gateron CM requires 63.5 grams, while the Purple Sakura needs 60 grams, making the Purple Sakura the lighter option for both measurements. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Sakura, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Gateron CM may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches offer a medium actuation force, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness when typing. Consideration of weight is essential when choosing a keyboard switch, as it can greatly impact the overall typing experience and comfort level.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance compared to the CM switch. The CM switch falls within the traditional travel distance range, while the Purple Sakura is on the shallower end. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the CM switch. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, ensuring that users will get different results depending on their preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron CM linear switch is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a neutral sound experience, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a balanced sound profile suitable for various uses. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the CM switch leaning towards a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Purple Sakura switch stays more neutral and versatile in its sound output.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Conversely, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch also boasts a buttery feel, combined with a mild and snappy tactile response. The Purple Sakura switch provides a gentle and approachable typing sensation with a touch of liveliness from the snappy response. Overall, while both switches share a buttery feel, the CM switch offers a wider range of smoothness and fluidity, whereas the Purple Sakura switch adds a hint of responsiveness to its typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch each present unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The CM switch offers a deeper, bassy sound and a range of smooth, polished, and creamy typing sensations. In contrast, the Purple Sakura switch provides a more neutral sound and a buttery, mildly snappy typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile, key feel, and typing style, as both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a richer and deeper sound profile with a bouncy typing experience, opt for the Gateron CM switch. The CM switch's full nylon housing and impeccable factory lube job promise a smooth and graceful typing journey with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy response and a buttery downstroke with a delicate balance of tactility, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch would be more suitable. The Purple Sakura switch offers a mild and neutral sound signature with a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style.
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