Bsun Kiki Red vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki 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 decision often comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Bsun Kiki Red offers a finely-tuned typing experience with a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance that is not excessively loud. With all-POM housings and smooth actuation facilitated by Ly in the stems, these linear switches provide a medium-light weighting for a subtle tactile experience loved by enthusiasts who appreciate finesse in performance and auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura stands out for its tactile response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance between pronounced tactility and a mild, neutral sound signature. While the Kiki Reds may appeal to those who prefer a clacky and polished feel, the Purple Sakuras cater to users who enjoy a snappy and buttery typing experience. 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
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
Ly
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
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Kiki Red and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Kiki Red's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles can provide users with different typing experiences depending on their preference for sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic element to the switch.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Kiki Red's POM bottom housing and the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing also offer distinct sound characteristics. The POM bottom housing of the Kiki Red contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Sakura elicits a fuller and rounder sound. The difference in sound profiles between these two switches can be attributed to the stiffness of POM and the softness of nylon, highlighting how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Bsun Kiki Red and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura have different housing materials in both the top and bottom housing, they both aim to provide users with unique sound profiles. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of deep and muted sounds from the POM housing of the Kiki Red, and sharp and crisp sounds from the polycarbonate of the Purple Sakura. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound and typing feel, as each housing material offers its own distinct characteristics.
Weight
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a more gentle option for typing. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a softer touch may opt for the Kiki Red, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more pronounced keystroke may gravitate towards the Purple Sakura for its firmer feel. Both switches offer different levels of force, catering to varying preferences in typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
The Bsun Kiki Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the Kiki Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Purple Sakura. If you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and a slightly more deliberate feel, the Kiki Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immediate and responsive feel, the Purple Sakura with its slightly shorter travel distance could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 Kiki Red linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of settings without being too loud or too quiet. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Kiki Red leaning towards a more pronounced and crisp sound, while the Purple Sakura offers a milder and more subtle acoustic experience.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Kiki Red switch is described with descriptors such as creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, and easy-to-press, indicating a smooth, seamless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is highlighted as buttery, mild, and snappy, promising a gentle typing experience with a responsive touch. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback and keypress resistance.
Overall, the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch each offer unique qualities in sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Kiki Red excels in providing a clacky and medium-light typing experience with a smooth actuation, while the Purple Sakura prioritizes a buttery downstroke and balanced tactility. Depending on whether you prefer a sharper, more pronounced sound with smooth actuation like the Kiki Red or a gentler, more buttery tactile experience like the Purple Sakura, both switches offer high-quality performance for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch or the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you should think about your preferences in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a light actuation force and a slightly clacky sound with a smooth and polished feel, the Kiki Red might be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a snappy tactile response with a buttery downstroke and mild sound, the Purple Sakura could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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