Bsun Light Sakura vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Bsun Light Sakura and the Outemu Silver mechanical switches, both options present compelling features suited for different typing preferences. The Bsun Light Sakura shines with its ultra-light feel and silent operation, making it an optimal choice for long typing sessions in shared spaces where minimizing noise is essential. This switch is designed for comfort and discretion, appealing particularly to those who prioritize a gentle typing experience without the distraction of sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver, while less defined in its standout characteristics, is often chosen for its responsiveness and reliability in gaming and typing alike. As a linear switch, it offers a smooth actuation without tactile feedback, appealing to users who prefer an uninterrupted keystroke. Ultimately, both switches cater to specific needs: the Silent Sakura for a quiet, comfortable typing experience, and the Outemu Silver for those who might value a slightly more dynamic feel. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Polycarbonate
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 the Outemu Silver both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, a choice that directly influences the acoustic properties of the switches. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity, which facilitates a sharper and crisper sound profile when the switches are actuated. This material's translucence also enhances its aesthetic appeal, particularly for RGB lighting setups, as it allows light to pass through, creating an illuminated effect. Therefore, users might expect a similar auditory experience from both switches regarding high-pitched sounds and clarity due to this common characteristic in their top housings.
However, the contrast between these two switches arises in their bottom housing materials, with the Light Sakura opting for polycarbonate while the Outemu Silver employs nylon. Polycarbonate's properties yield a sharper acoustic response, whereas nylon offers a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer composition. As nylon absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, the Outemu Silver is likely to produce a rounder auditory experience, particularly noticeable during key bottoming out. These differences mean that the overall sound profile of each switch will be uniquely affected by the bottom housing even though they share a similar top housing material.
In practical terms, users familiar with this switch architecture will notice how the interaction between the top and bottom housings shapes the overall acoustic character. While both switches will deliver a precise high-end clarity due to their polycarbonate tops, the bottom housing material will largely define the tactile feedback and lower frequencies experienced during use. Thus, while you can enjoy the similarities in sound clarity, the Light Sakura will lean towards a sharper, more resonant profile due to its dual polycarbonate construction, while the Outemu Silver will present a richer, fuller tone thanks to the inclusion of nylon in its bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Light Sakura features a relatively light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams. In contrast, the Outemu Silver requires a stronger actuation force of 45 grams and has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. Thus, the Light Sakura is the lighter option, catering to users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience ideal for extended use, such as in a workplace or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver's heavier forces provide a more substantial typing feel, appealing to those who appreciate a stronger push for each keystroke. This contrast in force preferences highlights how users might choose a switch based on their typing style and comfort, making each switch suited to different needs.
Travel distance
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silver linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights a key distinction between the two switches; the Light Sakura switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can provide a more responsive feel that many gamers prefer for quicker key presses. In contrast, the Outemu Silver's 4 mm travel distance allows for a deeper, more substantial key press that some users might find more comfortable and satisfying. Ultimately, if you lean toward faster response times and a more abrupt feel, the Light Sakura would be the better choice, whereas if you appreciate a fuller depth while typing, the Outemu Silver would be more suitable.
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 Outemu Silver comes in at $3.10 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 excels in providing a quiet typing experience. This characteristic makes it particularly suitable for use in shared workspaces or office environments, where noise levels must be kept to a minimum. The Outemu Silver linear switch, on the other hand, does not have a specified sound profile available, but it is generally understood that linear switches tend to produce less noise compared to tactile or clicky switches. However, the overall sound produced by any switch can also be influenced by the keyboard’s construction, such as the material of the case and the keycaps used.
As for the feel, the Light Sakura switch is designed to be ultra-light, catering to users who appreciate a gentle touch while typing. This lightweight actuation can greatly reduce finger fatigue during lengthy sessions and provides a comfortable typing experience. The Outemu Silver switch does not have specific descriptions regarding its feel, leaving an uncertainty about its tactile feedback nonetheless, linear switches typically offer a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump. As a result, both switches are likely to provide a linear action, but the Light Sakura’s ultra-light aspect may make it feel more effortless during use.
In conclusion, the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch stands out for its quiet operation and ultra-light feel, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and discretion. While the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks specific characteristics, it can still be expected to deliver a smooth typing experience typical of linear switches. Ultimately, both switches can cater to users seeking a quieter, linear feel, but the Light Sakura may be the better option for those who require extra comfort during prolonged typing tasks.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Outemu Silver linear switch will ultimately depend on your specific typing needs and preferences. If you prioritize a light, effortless keystroke for extended typing sessions or are working in a shared environment where noise is a concern, the Bsun Light Sakura is the ideal choice. Its 43-gram bottom out force provides a fatigue-reducing experience, allowing you to type comfortably for hours without straining your fingers, all while maintaining a silent operation that won't disrupt those around you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and don’t mind a bit of noise, the Outemu Silver, with its medium-heavy 65-gram bottom out force, could offer the responsiveness you seek, making your typing feel more deliberate and controlled. However, you should note that the Silver lacks the same level of comfort and quiet operation as the Sakura, potentially making it less suitable for long typing sessions or noise-sensitive environments. Ultimately, your decision should factor in whether you value a light, quiet switch for comfort and discretion or a firmer, more tactile switch for a robust typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
