Bsun Light Sakura vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Light Sakura and the Cherry MX Black both offer linear actuation but cater to different user needs and preferences. The Light Sakura is celebrated for its silent operation, making it an excellent choice for those who type in quiet environments like offices or shared spaces. Its ultra-light feel allows for extended typing sessions with minimal finger fatigue, appealing to users who prioritize comfort and discretion. Conversely, the Cherry MX Black, known for its robust and textured feel, offers a more tactile experience with a deeper sound profile that many typists enjoy. This switch's stiff actuation can provide satisfying feedback, making it suitable for those who prefer a solid typing experience. While both switches excel in their respective areas, it's essential to consider what matters most to you in a keyboard switch. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Light Sakura and Cherry MX Black switches utilize different housing materials that significantly impact their sound profiles and overall typing experiences. The Light Sakura features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity, which allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile with a strong resonance that enhances the clarity of each keystroke. This material's translucency also caters to RGB lighting, creating a more vibrant display. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that delivers a duller, rounder typing experience. These contrasting materials illustrate how the choice of housing can dictate not only the acoustic performance but also the overall feel of each switch.
When examining the differences in sound profiles, the dual polycarbonate construction of the Light Sakura ensures that both the bottom-out sound and the release sound exhibit a higher pitch and more resonance. This leads to a clear separation between the impact sounds produced when pressing the key down and when releasing it. Conversely, the Cherry MX Black's nylon construction means that both the bottom and top parts of the switch contribute to a more subdued auditory experience. The nylon’s ability to absorb sound means that the switch gives a cohesive thud whether you're bottoming out or releasing the key. This results in an experience that's less sharp and more rounded, appealing to typists who prefer a muted sound profile.
Despite these differences, there is an interesting intersection where both switches can yield a similar result regarding typing feel, albeit with distinct sound characteristics. If you were to switch out the housing materials of these two switches, you would retain the fundamental qualities of each type. A switch with dual polycarbonate housings would maintain the Light Sakura's crispness, while the Cherry MX Black's nylon would continue to offer a richness in sound. Thus, while the materials diverge, skillful adaption in housing could allow for a customized typing experience that aligns with individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, noticeable differences emerge between the two options. The Light Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer less resistance, allowing for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black requires a significantly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users might prefer for a satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, those who seek a lightweight experience for daily use should lean towards the Bsun Light Sakura, while those who enjoy a stronger push may find the Cherry MX Black more suitable for their typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, notable differences arise. The Light Sakura has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Black offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Light Sakura provides a shorter travel experience, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black's longer travel distance may suit those who prefer a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, lending a feeling of sturdiness and control. Ultimately, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Bsun Light Sakura would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, while those valuing a deeper keystroke experience may gravitate toward the Cherry MX Black.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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, the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is characterized by its ultra-quiet operation, making it particularly suitable for environments where discretion is essential, such as shared offices or quiet spaces. This switch is designed to minimize auditory distractions, providing a serene typing experience that allows for prolonged use without drawing attention. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black linear switch emits a low-pitched sound profile. This deeper, bass-heavy tone gives a more solid auditory feedback, which some users may find satisfying, especially in a more personal or focused environment. However, it is important to note that sound characteristics can vary based on the keyboard build and keycaps used, so experiences may differ.
In terms of feel, the Light Sakura is recognized for its ultra-light and comfortable action, designed to reduce fatigue during extended typing sessions. This gentle feedback makes it easier to type for long periods without strain, catering to those who prioritize ease of use. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black switches are noted for their textured, stiff feel. This means they require more force to actuate and will impart a sensation of friction during use, factors that may provide a tactile feedback that appeals to users who prefer a more deliberate and pronounced keypress experience.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Light Sakura and Cherry MX Black switches serve different purposes and cater to distinct user preferences, they also offer unique qualities that can influence your overall typing experience. The Light Sakura focuses on quietness and comfort, making it ideal for long durations in tranquil settings, whereas the MX Black delivers a low-pitched sound and a firmer typing feel that may resonate well with those who prefer an assertive touch. Depending on your needs, either switch can provide a compelling experience—just remember that environmental factors and personal preferences will ultimately guide your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a light, smooth typing experience that minimizes fatigue during long typing sessions, the Bsun Light Sakura is undoubtedly the better option. Its low actuation force of 43 grams makes it a gentle choice perfect for users in office environments or shared spaces, where silence and comfort are paramount. Conversely, if you prefer a more tactile feel with a heavier actuation force of 80 grams, the Cherry MX Black will serve you well. While it requires more force to press down, some users appreciate the textured, low-pitched sound profile that adds a sense of permanence to their keystrokes, ideal for those who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience or participate in gaming. Ultimately, your decision should reflect how much you prioritize comfort and noise level versus texture and resistance in your typing experience.
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