Bsun Light Sakura vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Light Sakura and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both stand out as excellent options for users who prefer linear switches, yet they cater to slightly different preferences and typing experiences. The Bsun Light Sakura is celebrated for its ultra-light feel and discreet operation, making it perfect for extended typing sessions in office settings or shared spaces where noise reduction is paramount. Its design prioritizes comfort and a gentle tactile experience, making it ideal for those who may suffer from fatigue during long hours of use. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches are known for their silky, muted, and polished feel, providing a cushy, pillow-like bottom-out experience with minimal audio feedback. This switch suits environments where noise must be kept to a minimum but still desires a refined tactile sensation. Both switches offer a quieter typing experience that enhances productivity without causing distractions; 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
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches, one notable similarity is the use of polycarbonate in the Light Sakura. The polycarbonate material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing both acoustic clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black utilizes Gateron’s proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings. While the INK blend is not explicitly polycarbonate, Gateron describes its sound profile as pointed and relatively high-pitched. This distinction suggests that while both switches lean towards a brighter acoustic signature, the materials may interact differently, with the INK blend offering a distinct character that is often described as clacky rather than outright sharp, as seen in the polyester structure.
Examining the bottom housings also reveals that both switches exhibit similar sound characteristics despite their different materials. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Light Sakura not only echoes the higher-pitched sound profile of its top housing but also significantly affects the switch's bottom-out feel. Meanwhile, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing carries a similar high-pitched tonal quality while enhancing the overall tactile experience. Ultimately, both switch designs are engineered to deliver an engaging typing experience characterized by a clear sound profile, though their unique materials create nuances in acoustic interactions and tactile feedback.
In terms of performance and user experience, the top housing material will disproportionately affect the sound produced when the key is released, while the bottom housing will influence how the key feels upon impact. Both switches' design philosophies prioritize acute sound signatures, which means that, while the specific materials differ, they can produce a similar auditory experience when considering the synergy of their respective top and bottom housings. Whether you opt for the polycarbonate Light Sakura or the Silent Ink Black with its INK blend, both aim to achieve an elevated level of sound clarity and user satisfaction, making them excellent options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking distinct audio feedback and performance in their experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight the preferences of typists and gamers alike. The Light Sakura boasts a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a softer feel that can facilitate longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black has a notably heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. As a result, the Light Sakura is the lighter option, while the Silent Ink Black is the heavier one. For users seeking a switch with a noticeable push feel, the Silent Ink Black would be the preferred choice, while those looking for a gentler touch might lean towards the Light Sakura for its lower forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference indicates that the Light Sakura switch offers a shorter travel distance, which might appeal to gamers or users who prefer quicker response times and a more immediate feedback feel when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black, with its more traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, may provide a more substantial, hearty depth, appealing to those who appreciate a little more resistance and feedback when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, while both switches serve different user preferences effectively, the shorter travel distance of the Light Sakura can contribute to a more responsive experience, whereas the Silent Ink Black might cater to those who enjoy a more deliberate keystroke.
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 Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Light Sakura switch is designed for those who prioritize a quiet typing experience, making it especially suitable for office environments or shared spaces. While specific sound characteristics are not detailed, it is implied that its silent operation aligns with the need to minimize disruptive noise. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch features a muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to typical mechanical switches. This switch effectively minimizes the noise associated with mechanical keyboards, making it another excellent choice for discreet settings. Both switches share the intent of reducing audio feedback, but the Silent Ink Black specifically emphasizes a more muted character.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Light Sakura switch offers an ultra-light experience aimed at comfort during extended typing sessions. Although specific descriptors for its tactile quality are not provided, its design suggests a focus on reducing fatigue while typing. Conversely, the Silent Ink Black switch is characterized by a silky and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The combination of these features results in reduced friction and resistance, allowing for fluid key presses. While the Light Sakura prioritizes ease and comfort, the Silent Ink Black enhances the smoothness of each keystroke, creating a slightly different typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Light Sakura and Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switches cater to users who value a quieter and comfortable typing experience, albeit with some distinctions. While the Light Sakura emphasizes an ultra-lightweight feel designed for long-use comfort, the Silent Ink Black enhances smoothness and texture through its silky and polished characteristics. Ultimately, your choice between these two will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter touch or a more refined tactile experience, as both will serve well in settings that require discretion.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing environment. If you prioritize a lightweight feel and quiet operation for prolonged typing sessions, especially in shared or office spaces, the Light Sakura is an excellent choice. Its gentle 43 grams actuation force minimizes fatigue, making it perfect for those long work hours without disturbing colleagues. On the other hand, if you preferred a switch that provides a more substantial feel to your keystrokes and slightly muted sound, the Silent Ink Black's 70 grams bottom-out force offers a more robust typing experience that still attenuates noise, making it suitable for quieter settings. Its silky and polished characteristics provide a luxurious typing sensation, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile experience without the louder acoustics typically associated with mechanical switches. Ultimately, your selection should reflect your needs for both sound level and tactile feedback, guiding you to the perfect switch for your keyboard.
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