TKC Kiwi vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular choices to take into account are the TKC Kiwi and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, both tactile switches but with distinct characteristics. The TKC Kiwi is revered for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offers a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced yet not overpowering. While the Kiwi is known for its stepped and low-pitched profile, the Purple Sakura is described as buttery and mild. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater to 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
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and Sarokeys Purple Sakura differ significantly in terms of sound profile and overall feel. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing offers a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks, while the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This distinction in sound quality can be attributed to the properties of the materials used, with UHWMPE offering a different acoustic experience compared to polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing continues to provide a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the Purple Sakura's bottom housing results in a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the brighter sound offered by UHWMPE in the Kiwi. This difference in sound profile showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience of a switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and Sarokeys Purple Sakura play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and feel of each switch. While both switches have unique characteristics attributed to their respective housing materials, the choice between UHWMPE and polycarbonate for the top housing, as well as between UHWMPE and nylon for the bottom housing, highlights the importance of material selection in achieving a desired typing experience. Whether looking for a brighter, resonant sound or a deeper, fuller sound profile, these differences in housing materials offer distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a personalized typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer contrasting experiences for users. The Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less pressure. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Kiwi requires a heavier force of 67 grams, whereas the Purple Sakura only needs 60 grams. This means that while the Kiwi may feel lighter to type on initially, it ultimately requires more force to fully press the keys down. Conversely, the Purple Sakura provides a more consistent typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force but a lighter bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and the desired level of force required for extended typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Kiwi offers a slightly longer travel distance, making it a great choice for those who prefer a deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura provides a shorter travel distance, which is ideal for gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 the Kiwi and Purple Sakura switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. The Kiwi switch has a low-pitched sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Purple Sakura switch offers a mild and neutral sound signature. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Kiwi switch provides a stepped and accented typing experience, with a polished finish that ensures a smooth and refined keystroke. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery, mild, and snappy feel, giving users a smooth and responsive typing sensation. Both switches strike a balance between tactility and comfort, appealing to users who appreciate a tactile typing experience without it being too overwhelming or subtle.
Overall, whether you choose the TKC Kiwi tactile switch or the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you can expect a satisfying and immersive typing experience. The Kiwi switch offers a snappy response with a medium-strong bump, while the Purple Sakura switch delivers a delicately balanced tactility. When it comes to sound, the switches provide a neutral profile suitable for various settings, and in terms of feel, they both offer a mix of characteristics that enhance the typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for those looking to elevate their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and a more pronounced tactile bump with a snappy sound profile, the Kiwi may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more subtle, buttery tactility with a mild sound signature, the Purple Sakura could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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