Gateron Ink Red vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Ink Red and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer distinct typing experiences. The Gateron Ink Red is a linear switch known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. Its smooth and satisfying feel, coupled with a crispy and clacky sound profile, makes typing effortless. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura is a tactile switch with a snappy response and buttery downstroke. The delicately balanced tactility of the Purple Sakuras provides a satisfying typing experience without being overpowering. While general pointers may suggest the Ink Red for its smoothness and light actuation force, and the Purple Sakura for its satisfying tactility, it's important to dive deeper to fully understand which switch best suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, it is evident that they have significant differences in terms of sound profile and material composition. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky, while the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura switch results in a more clear and resonant sound due to its stiffer nature, making it a preferred choice for those who value sound quality in their typing experience.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, the differences between the two switches become even more apparent. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing maintains the same high-pitched sound profile as the top housing, resulting in a consistent sound experience across the switch. In contrast, the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of each switch.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Red and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences due to their housing materials, they both prioritize sound quality and performance. The INK blend housing in the Ink Red provides a consistent and satisfying clacky sound, while the polycarbonate top housing in the Purple Sakura offers a sharper and crisper sound with the added benefit of RGB lighting compatibility. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing in the Purple Sakura creates a deeper and fuller sound that absorbs more noise, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches excel in their own ways, but the choice between them ultimately comes down to individual preference for sound profile and overall typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 60 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Gateron Ink Red may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offers a slightly heavier actuation force for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force for their typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ink Red, making it a popular choice among gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Ink Red provides a bit more depth with its 4 mm travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique travel distances that cater to different preferences, providing a variety of options for keyboard enthusiasts.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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, both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most users and environments. However, the Ink Red has a chirpy sound, adding a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from the Purple Sakura. The sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ink Red switch is described as silky and mild, offering a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery and snappy, providing a seamless and responsive typing sensation. Both switches fall into the mild category overall, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Considering the information provided, both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer satisfyingly smooth typing experiences with mild sound profiles. While the Ink Red has a chirpy sound and a polished feel, the Purple Sakura stands out with its buttery downstroke and snappy response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. However, users can expect similar results in terms of overall typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter typing experience with smooth key travel and a crispy sound profile, the Ink Red might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy tactile feedback with a buttery downstroke and a mild sound profile, the Purple Sakura could be more to your liking. Both switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams and offer different characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you while typing.
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