Bsun Light Sakura vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Cherry MX Purple RGB 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 Purple RGB each present unique advantages tailored to different user preferences. The Light Sakura, a linear switch, is celebrated for its ultra-light feel and silent operation, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions and work in shared or quiet environments. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is a tactile switch, designed to provide a satisfying tactile bump with medium strength, which many enthusiasts appreciate for enhanced feedback while typing. This combination of tactile response and RGB lighting can elevate the gaming and typing experience for users who enjoy both functionality and visuals. While the Light Sakura focuses on gentle, fatigue-reducing typing without disturbing others, the MX Purple caters to those who thrive on tactile feedback and customization. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, it's clear that they utilize different plastics, which yield distinct auditory experiences. The Light Sakura features a polycarbonate top housing, a material known for its rigidity and translucency. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it especially compatible with RGB lighting due to its clear aesthetic. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB employs a nylon top housing, a softer plastic that absorbs sound and produces a deeper, fuller auditory experience. This fundamental difference in material—stiffer versus softer—sets the stage for the overall sound and feel of each switch.
The bottom housings of the Light Sakura and Cherry MX Purple RGB continue this divergence in material choice, reinforcing their sound profiles. The polycarbonate utilized in the Light Sakura's bottom housing mirrors the sonic properties of the top housing, enhancing clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the MX Purple RGB maintains its softer characteristics, resulting in a more muted sound. Thus, the tactile experience and bottom-out sound when pressing a key is influenced more heavily by the bottom housing material. In typing sessions, the difference in material creates distinct sensations and airiness with the Light Sakura, while the MX Purple RGB provides a more rounded and full-bodied feedback.
In essence, while both switches have contrasting top and bottom housings—polycarbonate for the Light Sakura and nylon for the MX Purple RGB—their respective characteristics lead to unique typing experiences. If both switches were to utilize the same type of housing material across the board, such as exclusively polycarbonate or nylon, users would likely experience a more uniform sound profile throughout the entire keypress. However, due to the differing materials, users encounter a differentiated auditory landscape, with the Bsun Light Sakura delivering a more resonant and lively response, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB caters to those preferring a deeper, more muted sound. Ultimately, these distinctions cater to varied user preferences, showcasing how material choices significantly impact the tactile and auditory feedback of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch differ noticeably in their actuation forces. The Light Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Cherry MX Purple, making it more suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, which can be beneficial for prolonged use in either work or gaming scenarios. However, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple is unavailable, while the Light Sakura’s bottom out force is 43 grams. This means that while the Light Sakura provides a lighter feel throughout its keypresses, the weight of the MX Purple adds a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force, appealing to users who prefer a firmer feel. Overall, those seeking a lighter switch will favor the Light Sakura, while those who enjoy a heavier, more tactile switch may lean toward the Cherry MX Purple RGB, pending further information on its bottom-out characteristics.
Travel distance
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Light Sakura switch allows for slightly shorter key presses, which can lead to faster response times that may be preferred by gamers looking for quick actuation. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple's 4 mm travel distance provides a more traditional and deeper feel, which some users might find more satisfying for typing or general usage. Ultimately, if you value a swift response in gaming scenarios, the shorter Bsun Light Sakura could be the better choice. However, for those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke, the Cherry MX Purple with its longer travel distance may be more desirable.
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 Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 produced by the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch is notably quiet, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise levels need to be minimized, such as offices or shared spaces. This discretion is a hallmark of its design, allowing for a typing experience that won't disrupt coworkers or family members. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch produces a more audible sound, characterized by a refined, yet still moderately quiet, tactile bump. Although the uniqueness of its sound also depends on the keyboard build and the choice of keycaps, the MX Purple generally emits more noise than the Light Sakura, which is tailored for silence.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Light Sakura excels in providing an ultra-light experience that is particularly beneficial for those engaged in extended typing sessions. Its smooth linear action ensures uninterrupted keystrokes that promote a fatigue-reducing experience, as there is no tactile resistance to work against. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch incorporates a short, medium-strength tactile bump that delivers both feedback and excitement during typing. This tactile feedback helps some users to feel more connected with their keystrokes, providing an engaging touch point that can enhance typing speed and accuracy.
Overall, both switches cater to specific user preferences, with the Bsun Light Sakura prioritizing silence and a feather-light touch for discreet environments, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a tactile experience that can enhance typing feel and engagement. While both switches can deliver satisfying results, your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize absolute quietude or an engaging tactile response. Each switch has its own unique strengths, ensuring that different typists can find their perfect fit based on personal preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch should hinge on your specific needs and preferences. If you find yourself engaged in long typing sessions or require a switch that operates quietly in shared spaces—such as an office or a communal area—the Light Sakura would be the ideal fit. Its ultra-light feel and silent operation are designed for comfort and discretion, allowing you to type without creating distractions. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile feedback during your typing experience, particularly if you appreciate the satisfaction of a pronounced bump at the actuation point, the Cherry MX Purple RGB may be more suitable for you. This switch provides that refined tactile experience that many enthusiasts love, making it satisfying for both gaming and typing. Ultimately, by considering your typing environment and personal preference for feel and feedback, you can select the switch that enhances your mechanical keyboard experience the most.
Mentioned in this article
