Bsun Light Sakura vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Light Sakura and the Gateron Mini i stand out for their unique approaches to typing comfort and feedback. The Bsun Light Sakura is a linear switch celebrated for its ultra-light feel, making it an excellent choice for those who type for extended periods. Its silent operation ensures that users can work discreetly in office environments or shared spaces, providing a gentle and fatigue-reducing experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that strikes a balance, offering a mild feedback sensation with each keystroke while maintaining a fairly muted sound profile. This makes it ideal for professionals who appreciate the satisfying tactile response without the disruptive noise often associated with mechanical switches. Both options are great for long hours of typing, but cater to different preferences—whether you prioritize silence and comfort with the Light Sakura or a subtle feedback experience with the Mini i. 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
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Bsun Light Sakura and the Gateron Mini i housing materials, a distinct difference emerges between the two switches. The Light Sakura features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its rigidity, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile during typing. This design choice not only lends itself to clarity and resonance but also enhances the aesthetic appeal with its translucency, making the switch particularly suitable for use in RGB lighting setups. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i utilizes a nylon top housing, which is softer and absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper, fuller sound profile. This difference in material impacts the auditory experience when using each switch, with polycarbonate favoring brightness while nylon induces a more subdued response.
The bottom housing of each switch further emphasizes these contrasting characteristics. Both the Light Sakura and the Mini i, using polycarbonate and nylon respectively, maintain the same overall effect to differing degrees. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Light Sakura continues to promote that higher-pitched, crisp sound, reflecting its stiffer construction. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Mini i ensures a deeper thud, as the softer material absorbs impact and minimizes sound reflection. This division reinforces how each switch's bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out feel and sound, leading to differing tactile experiences.
Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in the Light Sakura and Mini i results in fine-tuned auditory experiences that highlight their respective virtues. While the polycarbonate construction of the Light Sakura provides clarity and brightness to both aspects of the keystroke, the Mini i's nylon approach creates a deeper, more muted effect. Despite these differing outcomes, they are both capable of producing enjoyable sounds tailored to user preferences. In scenarios where aspects like RGB lighting and vibrancy matter, the polycarbonate will shine; while for those who seek a richer and more resonant sound, the nylon will deliver satisfactory results.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we observe some key differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Light Sakura has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option geared toward those who prefer less effort when typing or gaming for extended periods. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i has a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which gives it a heavier feel that might appeal to users who seek a more substantial typing experience. Therefore, those looking for a lighter switch would favor the Light Sakura, while those preferring a stronger tactile response might lean towards the Mini i. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight the distinct tactile experiences each switch offers, catering to varied user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, the Light Sakura measures 3.6 mm, making it the longer option, while the Mini i has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, resulting in a slightly shorter feel when pressed. With 4.0 mm being the most traditional travel distance and 3.0 mm being more shallow, both switches are within the shorter range that many gamers appreciate for quicker response times. If you favor a more responsive keypress, the Mini i would be a suitable choice due to its 0.2 mm shorter travel distance. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced depth when typing or gaming, the Light Sakura’s longer travel distance might be more appealing. Overall, while both switches offer benefits suited to different preferences, the Light Sakura provides a bit more depth, while the Mini i offers slightly quicker responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light 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 Light Sakura for $3.49.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
The sound profile of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is notably silent, making it an excellent choice for those who value discretion in environments such as offices or shared spaces. Its design minimizes any auditory feedback, allowing for a peaceful typing atmosphere without disturbing others. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a moderate, muted sound. Although not completely silent, its sound is soft enough to ensure it fits well within professional settings, providing a sense of auditory feedback without being intrusive. Both switches cater to users aiming for quiet operation, but the Light Sakura stands out for its near-silent performance.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Light Sakura provides an ultra-light touch, making it incredibly comfortable for prolonged use. Its linear nature offers a straightforward keypress experience without any tactile bumps or resistance, which can facilitate fatigue-free typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i features a gentle tactile experience, characterized as "bouncy" and "easy-to-press." It strikes a balance between providing feedback and minimal resistance, making typing effortless. The Mini i's tactile response, combined with its light actuation force, ensures a lively and engaging experience, ideal for extended typing sessions. While the Light Sakura offers a fluid typing sensation devoid of tactile feedback, the Mini i provides a subtle yet satisfying tactile acknowledgment with each keystroke.
In summary, both the Bsun Light Sakura and Gateron Mini i switches are designed with comfort and quiet operation in mind, making them suitable for environments that require discretion. The Light Sakura excels with its silent linear feel, perfect for uninterrupted typing, while the Mini i offers a gentle tactile experience with a slightly audible yet muted sound, striking a favorable balance between feedback and noise. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer the seamless flow of a linear switch or the subtle tactile response of a tactile switch, both of which aim to enhance typing comfort during extended use.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch ultimately hinges on your typing needs and preferences. If you prioritize a quiet, ultra-light switch that allows for long hours of comfortable typing without disturbing those around you, the Light Sakura is an excellent choice. Its low actuation force and silent nature make it perfect for environments where discretion is key, such as shared offices or libraries. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that combines subtle tactile feedback with a moderately muted sound profile, the Mini i is ideal. Its bouncy feel and slightly higher actuation force provide a satisfying typing experience while maintaining a professional atmosphere, balancing responsiveness with a gentle touch. Therefore, consider whether you want a silent experience that minimizes fatigue or a tactile sensation that offers a little more engagement in your typing. Each switch has its strengths, so it’s about what complements your typing style and workspace best.
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