Bsun Light Sakura vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Bsun Light Sakura and the TTC Speed Silver emerge as two appealing options, each catering to distinct preferences and needs. The Bsun Light Sakura is designed for those who prioritize silence and comfort, featuring an ultra-light feel that makes it a superb choice for long typing sessions in quiet environments like offices or shared spaces. Its gentle actuation and discreet operation allow users to enjoy a fatigue-reducing experience without disrupting colleagues. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver targets users who demand speed and precision. With a light-medium level of resistance and a reduced travel distance, Speed Silvers enhance typing efficiency, making them ideal for gamers and fast typists seeking a snappy response. While the Sakura promotes a serene typing experience, the Speed Silver champions rapid actuation and pristine sound. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 TTC Speed Silver switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to similar acoustic characteristics that enhance their overall sound profiles. As a result of the polycarbonate's stiffer composition, both switches produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when keys are engaged and released. This aspect is particularly important for users looking for an engaging auditory experience, especially if they intend to use RGB lighting; the translucency of polycarbonate allows for impressive light diffusion that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches. Thus, both switches deliver similar sonic results due to the shared use of this material in their top components.
However, the bottom housing materials in these switches present a contrast that ultimately influences their sound profiles and feel. The Light Sakura incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the same crispness in sound that the top housing provides. This synergy between the top and bottom also fosters a more pronounced sound profile during key presses and releases, taking advantage of the stiffer material properties entirely. In contrast, the Speed Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which is traditionally known for rendering a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. The nylon absorbs more sound energy, resulting in a more muted, rounded auditory experience that contrasts sharply with the top housing's crisp output.
When these differences are considered, it becomes evident that though the Bsun Light Sakura and TTC Speed Silver share commonalities in their top housing materials, their overall sound experience varies significantly due to the distinctive bottom housing components. The Light Sakura offers a more uniform sound profile characterized by clarity, while the Speed Silver provides a dynamic blend of crispness from the top and a rounder tone from the nylon bottom. For users focused on achieving a specific auditory experience, these distinctions can be crucial. Ultimately, those who appreciate the benefits of both sound profiles might find a way to combine or choose switches based on their preference for either a sharper or fuller auditory response.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch exhibit notable differences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Light Sakura has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it an excellent choice for users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver features a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, rendering it more suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. While both switches ultimately serve the purpose of providing a tactile feedback during use, the Light Sakura is the lighter option overall, whereas the Speed Silver is distinctly heavier, catering to differing user preferences in keyboard feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we find that the Light Sakura offers a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Speed Silver the shorter option, appealing for gamers who favor quicker response times, while the Light Sakura, with its longer travel distance, may be better suited for those who appreciate a more substantial feel beneath their fingertips. The difference of 0.2 mm may seem minor, but it can significantly affect the typing experience, especially for users sensitive to travel depths. Therefore, if responsiveness is your priority, the TTC Speed Silver would be the preferable choice, whereas the Bsun Light Sakura caters to those who enjoy a deeper keypress.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 to operate quietly, making it an excellent choice for environments where discretion is necessary, such as offices or shared spaces. Its sound profile is subtle, allowing for a focused typing experience without disturbing others nearby. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver presents a neutral sound profile. This balance between sound and performance means that it is neither overly loud nor silent, making it versatile for various settings. However, despite its suitability for different environments, the Speed Silver can still produce a distinct auditory feedback that some users may appreciate, especially those who enjoy or require more auditory confirmation of their keystrokes.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Light Sakura is characterized by an ultra-light actuation, providing a gentle typing experience that many find comfort-inducing during prolonged use. This makes it ideal for individuals looking to minimize fatigue while typing for extended periods. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver is described as a mild switch offering a gentle touch that is approachable for a wide range of users. Its polished finish ensures a smooth typing experience with reduced friction, benefiting those who prefer a refined feel. The combination of a light-medium resistance and quick actuation promotes fast typing while still maintaining comfort, positioning it as an excellent option for users who prioritize speed and precision.
In conclusion, both switches serve different preferences but cater to specific needs effectively. The Bsun Light Sakura focuses on providing a silent and comfortable typing experience ideal for shared environments, while the TTC Speed Silver excels in delivering a quick and precise action with a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various settings. Users can choose based on their unique typing style and environmental considerations, as each switch brings its own distinct qualities to the mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a silent, gentle typing experience that allows for extended use without fatigue, the Light Sakura is your best bet. Its light actuation force of 43 grams makes it perfect for long typing sessions, whether you're working in a quiet office or simply prefer not to disturb those around you. However, if you're looking for speed and precision, perhaps for gaming or fast-paced typing, the TTC Speed Silver with its medium-light actuation force of 55 grams is the superior option. Its shorter travel distance enables quicker actuation, making it ideal for tasks that require immediate responsiveness. Ultimately, both switches have their unique strengths, so consider the environments in which you'll be using them, your typing style, and whether prioritizing quiet comfort or rapid response aligns better with your intended use.