TTC Honey vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey 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 TTC Honey linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch. The TTC Honey switch is praised for its smooth and creamy feel, making typing a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a tactile response with a buttery downstroke that strikes a perfect balance between tactility and comfort. While the Honey switch is categorized as 'Subdued,' 'Frictionless,' and 'Polished,' the Purple Sakura switch is described as 'Buttery,' 'Snappy,' and 'Neutral.' 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials for the TTC Honey and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches are quite similar, as both feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. This material allows for a clear and resonant sound when the key is released. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
The differences in housing materials between the TTC Honey and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches lead to unique typing experiences. The Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile when keys are released, while the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Sakura provides a deeper and fuller sound during typing. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches enhances the clarity and sharpness of the keypresses, particularly when combined with RGB lighting. These distinct housing materials highlight the importance of considering the overall sound and feel of a switch when selecting mechanical keyboards for specific preferences.
In summary, the utilization of polycarbonate in both the top housing of the TTC Honey and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches results in similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness and clarity. However, the nylon bottom housing in the Purple Sakura switch provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the housing materials chosen for mechanical switches play a significant role in dictating the overall sound and typing experience, making them an essential factor to consider when customizing or selecting mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The TTC Honey linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Honey switch is also lighter at 50 grams, while the Purple Sakura switch has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Honey switch provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Purple Sakura switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, the Honey has a travel distance of 3.8 mm while the Purple Sakura has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Purple Sakura has the shorter travel distance, making it potentially more favorable for those looking for quicker response times, especially in gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Honey switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to users who prefer a more profound key press feeling. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, catering to a variety of user preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 TTC Honey linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, producing a dampened noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a more neutral sound signature, suitable for various settings and user preferences. Both switches offer pleasant sound experiences, with the Honey being more subdued and the Purple Sakura being more neutral. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the TTC Honey linear switch is described as having a creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless sensation with each keystroke. Conversely, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a buttery and mild typing sensation, striking a delicate balance between tactile feedback and ease of use. Both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with the Honey focusing on smoothness and the Purple Sakura providing a balance of tactility and comfort.
Overall, the TTC Honey linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Honey switch is characterized by its creamy feel and subdued sound profile, the Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery typing experience and a neutral sound signature. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches excel in different aspects, and users can expect similar levels of quality and performance based on their specific preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the TTC Honey linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother, creamy typing experience with a subdued sound, the TTC Honey linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force, a snappy and buttery typing experience with a neutral sound profile, then the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what features you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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