Bsun Light Sakura vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Light Sakura and Cherry MX Speed Silver offer distinct experiences tailored to different user preferences and environments. The Light Sakura is celebrated for its silent operation and ultra-light feel, making it an ideal choice for individuals who need a comfortable and discreet typing experience, particularly in office or shared spaces. Its gentle touch minimizes fatigue during prolonged use, catering to those who prioritize comfort in their typing sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is engineered for speed, featuring a full-height linear action designed to deliver instant responsiveness for gamers who require precision in every keystroke. With low spring resistance, the Speed Silver excels in fast-paced scenarios where performance is crucial. While both switches are linear and serve unique purposes, one excels in comfort and discretion, whereas the other prioritizes rapid response times. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches, a distinct contrast emerges. The Bsun Light Sakura features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This choice of material ensures that the sound produced is clear and resonant, ideal for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. The translucency of polycarbonate also offers aesthetic advantages, especially for RGB lighting setups, as the light can easily pass through and create a striking visual effect. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver employs nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a duller and rounder acoustic experience.
While both switches utilize different materials for their housings, the implications of these choices extend beyond just sound quality. The materials shape the tactile experience as well; with the Bsun Light Sakura’s stiffer polycarbonate providing a more abrupt response, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver’s softer nylon allows for a smoother and potentially quieter keystroke. The design of the switches affects not only the auditory experience but also how users interact with the switches themselves. For example, the Light Sakura's housing is likely to deliver a more distinct tactile feedback when the keys are actuated, whereas the MX Speed Silver may offer a more cushioned feel, making it potentially more suited for long typing sessions or gaming.
Despite their differences, if you desire similar results in terms of sound profile while utilizing these two switches, adjustments can be made. For instance, users can modify their typing technique or the materials used in keycap selection to create a more uniform auditory experience across both switch types. Additionally, factors such as switch orientation, shaft design, and even the keyboard casing can influence how sound is transmitted and perceived. Therefore, while Bsun Light Sakura and Cherry MX Speed Silver switches are constructed from distinct materials with different acoustic characteristics, users can manipulate their environment and typing habits to achieve a desired outcome, providing versatility regardless of the chosen switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, notable differences arise. The Light Sakura switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience for extended use, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams, suggesting it may provide a more substantial push feel, which can be preferable for those seeking a firmer typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the MX Speed Silver is unavailable, preventing a full comparison on that front. Consequently, users looking for lighter switches may prefer the Bsun Light Sakura, while those seeking a heavier and potentially more tactile experience should lean towards the Cherry MX Speed Silver.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, it's clear that they differ from one another. The Light Sakura has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the MX Speed Silver features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that for users seeking faster response times, the Cherry MX Speed Silver would be the more suitable choice due to its shorter travel distance. However, for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses, the Bsun Light Sakura, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to personal preference for either more responsiveness or a more pronounced tactile feel.
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 Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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 Bsun Light Sakura switch is characterized by its remarkably quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for those who need a discreet typing experience. While specific sound characteristics were not provided, its design inherently promotes a silent performance, which is preferable in office settings or shared environments where noise could be a distraction. In contrast, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch delivers a deeper auditory experience described as "thocky" and "low-pitched." This gives it a rich, satisfying sound with a soft "knock" when key presses are executed, creating a pleasant feedback sound that some users might enjoy, particularly in gaming contexts, where the auditory response can add to the overall experience.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Light Sakura emphasizes a lightweight and smooth experience, promoting comfort for extended typing sessions, although specific tactile feedback details were not provided. In contrast, the MX Speed Silver is described as having a textured feel, which introduces a slight friction during key presses. This texture can give users a more tactile sensation while typing, which some may find satisfying, while others might prefer the lighter touch of the Light Sakura for a smoother operation.
In summary, the Bsun Light Sakura switch excels in providing a silent and comfortable typing experience ideal for long sessions in quieter environments. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch stands out for its rapid response and textured feedback, making it particularly attractive to gamers who value both speed and auditory satisfaction. Both switches cater to different preferences—if you prioritize silence and fatigue reduction, the Light Sakura is the clear choice; however, if you seek tactile feedback and sound, the MX Speed Silver might be more appealing.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a quiet, comfortable typing experience—particularly for long sessions in a shared or office environment—the Bsun Light Sakura is your go-to option. Its low actuation force of 43 grams offers a gentle touch that reduces fatigue and allows for extended use without discomfort. On the other hand, if you're a gamer seeking rapid responsiveness, the Cherry MX Speed Silver's ultra-fast actuation will be highly advantageous. Its low spring resistance ensures that every keystroke registers with immediate response, which can significantly enhance your gaming performance when every millisecond counts. Moreover, the distinct sound profile of the Speed Silver, described as thocky and low-pitched, may offer an appealing auditory feedback for those who enjoy a deeper keyboard tone, while the Bsun Light Sakura excels in discretion and silence. In summary, your decision should align with whether you value a serene typing environment or a competitive edge in gaming.
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