Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Keygeek Raw, a linear switch, and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, a tactile switch. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, creating a switch that is creamy yet lightweight with a slightly textured feel out of the box. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offers a tactile experience with a snappy response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of pronounced tactility without being overpowering. While the Keygeek Raw is perfect for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches, the Purple Sakuras provide a mild and neutral sound signature. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and the Purple Sakura switches both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Keygeek Raw's Nylon & UPE blend top housing provides a smooth and responsive typing experience, while also enhancing the sound with a softer and more rounded profile. In contrast, the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound that is more resonant and clear. While both materials offer different sound profiles, they both excel in providing a tactile typing experience for users.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Keygeek Raw's UMPE & Si blend offers a unique blend that enhances the overall feel of the switch. The blend provides a sturdy foundation for typing, resulting in a satisfying keypress that is both smooth and durable. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing brings a deeper and fuller sound profile to the switch, absorbing more sound and creating a duller yet rounder sound. Despite their differences, both housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience by providing a solid base for keypresses.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in both the Keygeek Raw and the Purple Sakura switches offers users a variety of options to customize their typing experience. Whether you prefer a softer, more rounded sound profile with the Keygeek Raw or a sharper, higher-pitched sound with the Purple Sakura, both switches deliver on providing a tactile and satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the unique qualities of each housing material contribute to the overall durability and performance of the switches, ensuring that users can enjoy a premium typing experience for years to come.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch reveals some differences. The Keygeek Raw switch has an actuation force of None grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown, while its bottom out force is 57.5 grams, providing a medium resistance. In contrast, the Purple Sakura switch requires an actuation force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Keygeek Raw, and a bottom out force of 60 grams, also classified as medium. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Keygeek Raw may be the better option due to its lower bottom out force. In contrast, the Purple Sakura offers a slightly stronger push feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches fall within the medium range, providing an overall similar typing experience in terms of weight and resistance.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers might prefer the Keygeek Raw for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for faster response times during gameplay. On the other hand, those who prefer a more tactile feel and deeper key press may lean towards the Sarokeys Purple Sakura with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the preference between the two switches will depend on individual typing or gaming preferences, with both switches offering a unique feel and experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, both the Keygeek Raw and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments and user preferences. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used, so keep that in mind when considering the overall auditory experience of these switches.
Moving on to the feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is noted for its textured feel right out of the box, providing a slightly rougher typing experience that some users may find appealing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as having a buttery downstroke, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. Additionally, the Purple Sakura switch is known for its snappy response, adding a level of liveliness to the typing experience.
Overall, when comparing the Keygeek Raw and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw switch provides a textured feel and a moderate, neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery downstroke, snappy response, and a mild, neutral sound profile, providing a smooth and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a slightly rougher texture with a moderate sound profile or a smooth, snappy feel with a buttery downstroke.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a unique material blend that offers a lightweight and slightly textured typing experience, the Keygeek Raw may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke, the Purple Sakura could be more to your liking. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for various users and environments. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you value the creamy feel of the Keygeek Raw or the balanced tactility of the Purple Sakura. Happy typing!
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