Outemu Crystal vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Outemu Crystal and the Everglide Sakura Pink. The Crystal offers a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light weight and an elastic feel. Typing on the Crystals provides a neutral sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter keyboarding experience. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches are known for their super light actuation force of 35g, making them perfect for delicate typists. These switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience, with a gliding type feel and frictionless operation. Additionally, the Sakura Pinks produce a delightful poppy sound reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, adding a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches are remarkably similar. Both switches feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound. Additionally, both switches' clear housings make them ideal for use with RGB lighting, as the translucency allows for beautiful light effects to shine through.
The similarity in housing materials means that users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both the Outemu Crystal and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings ensures that the resulting sound profile is clear and crisp, with a higher-pitched tone. Moreover, the translucency of the polycarbonate material allows for stunning RGB lighting effects, making these switches an excellent choice for those looking to customize their keyboard's appearance.
While the top and bottom housings of a switch typically have different impacts on its overall sound profile, it is important to note that both the Crystal and Sakura Pink switches utilize polycarbonate for both housings. Therefore, any differences between the bottom and top-out sounds and feels of these switches would be minimal. Both housings contribute to the overall sharp and resonant sound produced when pressing down on a key, while the top housing specifically affects the sound when a key is released. This balance between the two housing materials ensures a satisfying and consistent typing experience for users of either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. The Crystal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, categorizing it as a light switch.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sakura Pink switch would be the ideal choice, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out. This is advantageous for individuals who type for long periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions, as the lighter weight enables them to type with less strain.
In contrast, the Crystal switch offers a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. This may be appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing, as it provides a more substantial and tactile experience. Opting for switches with heavier forces can give a satisfying feeling while typing, particularly for individuals who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that aligns with their preferred typing experience. Whether one desires a lighter or heavier switch, both options cater to individual preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing journey.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is exactly the same at 4 mm. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying typing experience with their equal travel distances. Whether you opt for the Crystal or Sakura Pink, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when you press down on a key.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch offer different qualities. The Crystal switch has a unique chirpy sound, which sets it apart from other switches. It produces a high-pitched and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The Sakura Pink switch has a delightful poppy sound, reminiscent of popping bubble wrap. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Crystal switch offers a polished experience. It has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The Crystal switch has reduced friction and smooth key travel. As for the Sakura Pink switch, it offers a buttery and creamy typing experience. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, similar to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. The Sakura Pink switch is easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate. It offers a frictionless typing experience, minimizing resistance or friction when pressing the keys.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch have distinct subjective qualities. The Crystal switch offers a linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile. It has a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switch boasts a feather-light actuation force and produces a poppy sound reminiscent of popping bubble wrap. It provides a buttery and creamy typing experience with a frictionless operation. Depending on your preferences, both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. By considering the available information, you can select the switch that aligns with the qualities you desire.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a unique linear typing experience and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal is a great choice. These switches have a polished feel, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer an even lighter switch with a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Everglide Sakura Pink is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches are perfect for delicate typists and offer a buttery, frictionless feel. The Sakura Pinks also produce a delightful poppy sound, adding a playful touch to your typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style.