Bsun Guyu vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the linear BSUN Guyu and the tactile Sarokeys Purple Sakura. The BSUN Guyu linear switches are praised for their unique auditory experience, featuring all-POM housings that deepen the acoustics and a long pole stem for a brighter, crisper bottom-out sound. These switches offer a smooth keystroke and medium weight, creating an effortless glide with resonant feedback. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switches are known for their snappy response and buttery downstroke. They strike a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced without being overpowering, resulting in a mild and neutral sound signature. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that make them appealing choices for different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Guyu and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer distinct sound profiles and characteristics. The Guyu's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, creating a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound with more clarity and resonance. While both materials offer pleasing sounds, they cater to different preferences - one focusing on a deeper tone while the other prioritizes a crisper sound.
In terms of bottom housings, the Guyu's POM material continues to deliver a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deep and muted. In contrast, the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These differing characteristics in bottom housings showcase how material choice can influence the overall sound output of a switch and cater to different user preferences for typing experiences.
When considering switches with different top and bottom housing materials, it is important to note the impact each material has on the overall typing experience. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials highlights the nuanced differences in sound and tactile feedback that can be achieved by carefully selecting housing materials. While the Guyu and the Purple Sakura may offer contrasting sound profiles, their unique housing materials cater to a range of preferences and highlight the importance of material choice in keyboard customization.
Weight
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Guyu requires 50 grams while the Purple Sakura needs 60 grams, making the Guyu lighter in this aspect as well. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Guyu, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Purple Sakura. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Guyu linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Guyu's travel distance is slightly longer than the Purple Sakura, providing a bit more depth to the key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel, the Guyu may be the better option. However, if you prioritize quick responsiveness, the Purple Sakura's shorter travel distance may be more suitable for your needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
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 Bsun Guyu linear switch offers a clacky and crisp bottom-out sound, enhanced by its unique POM housing and long pole stem. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a neutral and mild sound signature, making it suitable for various typing environments without being too disruptive. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences - with the Guyu leaning towards a brighter and more pronounced sound, while the Purple Sakura opts for a softer and more subtle approach.
In terms of feel, the Guyu switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, offering a smooth glide with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery, mild, and snappy, providing a gentle yet responsive typing sensation that is easy on the fingers. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Guyu focusing on a more refined and polished feel, while the Purple Sakura offers a smooth and seamless keystroke.
In conclusion, the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Guyu excels in providing a clacky and crisp sound with a creamy and snappy feel, the Purple Sakura delivers a neutral and mild sound with a buttery and gentle sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing habits, as they both provide a satisfying and unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. Whether opting for the brightness of the Guyu or the softness of the Purple Sakura, users can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that enhances their overall typing performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the specific qualities of each switch. If you prefer a lighter touch with a unique auditory experience characterized by a bright and crisp sound, smooth keystrokes, and resonant feedback, then the Bsun Guyu linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with a medium bottom out force, a snappy response, and a buttery downstroke that strikes a delicate balance of tactility, then the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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