TTC Flaming Purple vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Flaming Purple and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer distinct features to cater to different preferences. The Flaming Purple boasts a linear design known for its resonant and slightly bassier sound profile, providing an engaging auditory experience with its poppy undertones. With a feather-light bottom-out force of 47g, it offers a swift and effortless typing experience ideal for both enthusiasts and daily typists. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overwhelming. Its mild and neutral sound signature adds to its appeal. 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of these switches provides a clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for RGB lighting applications. However, the difference lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Flaming Purple's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing provides similar qualities, further enhancing the overall typing experience.
When the top and bottom housings are different in a switch, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the bottom and top, impacting the sound and feel of the switch differently. The bottom housing's properties have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the difference in the bottom housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and Sarokeys Purple Sakura may result in variations in the typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing of both switches offering a comfortable typing feel with different sound profiles.
Overall, both the TTC Flaming Purple and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer unique combinations of housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While their polycarbonate top housings create similar sharp and crisp sound profiles, the differences in their nylon bottom housings provide nuanced differences in sound and typing feel. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound or a duller and rounder sound, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with a touch of individuality based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Flaming Purple has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 47 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Purple Sakura has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a bit more resistance. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may gravitate towards the Flaming Purple, while those seeking a stronger push feel may opt for the Purple Sakura. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming needs.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, the Flaming Purple has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Purple Sakura has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Flaming Purple with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
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 TTC Flaming Purple linear switch offers a slightly bassier and resonant experience, creating a poppy undertone with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer distinct auditory characteristics that cater to different preferences, so the choice between them would depend on the user's preference for sound.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Purple is described as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light and effortless typing experience with minimal finger strain. Conversely, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is often described as buttery, mild, and snappy, providing a smooth and gentle keystroke that is highly responsive. While the Flaming Purple emphasizes lightness and ease, the Purple Sakura focuses on a smooth and uniform typing sensation with a touch of snappiness. Again, the decision between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or smoother typing feel.
Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Flaming Purple leans towards a bassier sound and a feathery feel, the Purple Sakura provides a more neutral sound profile with a buttery and snappy typing experience. Both switches are capable of enhancing typing experiences in their own ways, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their specific preferences and typing style. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal taste in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch or the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and effortless typing experience with a slightly bassier sound profile, then the Flaming Purple switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile response with a buttery downstroke and a more moderate sound profile, then the Purple Sakura switch might be more up your alley. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on what aspects of typing experience matter most to you.