Bsun Light Sakura vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Gateron Weightlessness 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 Weightlessness offer unique advantages tailored to different preferences. The Light Sakura is a linear switch renowned for its ultra-light feel and silent operation, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort during extended typing sessions, especially in office environments or shared spaces where discretion is key. Conversely, the Gateron Weightlessness stands out as a tactile switch that delivers a subtle to moderate tactile feedback, providing satisfying feedback with each keystroke while maintaining a balanced sound profile. This makes it ideal for users who enjoy a more engaging typing experience without the excessive noise often associated with clicky switches. 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
50g
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
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
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the Gateron Weightlessness, a clear distinction emerges between the two. The Light Sakura employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a distinctively sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate’s relative stiffness ensures that the sound produced is more resonant, making it an excellent choice for users who appreciate a clear auditory feedback when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, as the light can pass through the housing more effectively, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch.
In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness utilizes nylon for its top and bottom housings, which results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer characteristics absorb more sound compared to polycarbonate, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. While both switches offer unique sound profiles due to the differences in material, the Weightlessness may appeal to those who prefer a more muted experience that feels deeper and less jarring. The softer nature of nylon also suggests a different tactile experience, as it may absorb some of the vibrations and provide a less pronounced bottom-out feel, which can be crucial for users who value a more subdued typing sound.
Despite these contrasting material choices, both the Light Sakura and the Weightlessness can achieve specific auditory results and tactile sensations that cater to diverse typing preferences. If a user appreciates the sharper sound and resonance of the Light Sakura but is drawn to the depth of the Weightlessness, they could achieve similar auditory feedback by considering a switch mod or pair of keycaps that emphasize their preferred sound profile. Ultimately, the different materials employed in each switch create unique user experiences, and understanding these nuances allows for a more tailored typing experience based on individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch with the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, notable differences in actuation force are evident. The Light Sakura features a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, which appeals to those seeking a more substantial typing feedback. However, the bottom out force for the Gateron switch is unknown, preventing a complete comparison in that aspect. Overall, the Light Sakura can be classified as the lighter option, while the Gateron Weightlessness remains the heavier choice. Users seeking a more relaxed typing experience may gravitate towards the Light Sakura, while those who enjoy a firmer touch might prefer the Weightlessness.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, we find that the Light Sakura has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the longer of the two options, while the Weightlessness comes in at a shorter 3.4 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm might seem minor, but it can impact the tactile feel and responsiveness during use. Gamers seeking quicker response times may prefer the Weightlessness for its shorter travel distance, which can facilitate faster keystrokes. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Light Sakura due to its greater depth. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus a hearty 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 Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 linear switch is designed for a quiet, nearly silent typing experience, making it an excellent choice for environments where noise could be an issue, such as offices or shared workspaces. The sound profile of the Light Sakura is intentionally subdued, focusing on an ultra-soft keystroke that minimizes any audible feedback. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch delivers a more balanced sound profile that is subtle to moderate, allowing for a gentle auditory cue without being obtrusive. While the tactile nature of the Weightlessness offers some sound, the overall noise level remains relatively contained, making it suitable for similar environments.
When it comes to feel, the Light Sakura is renowned for its ultra-light actuation force, which contributes to a fatigue-reducing typing experience—perfect for long hours of use without discomfort. The smooth linear action offers a seamless ride from keypress to release, allowing for a gentle touch that promotes a relaxed typing style. Meanwhile, the Weightlessness tactile switch provides a considerate tactile feedback that gives users a sense of key engagement without overwhelming the keystroke. Although it is not as light as the Light Sakura, the tactile bump provides enough feedback to enhance the typing experience without sacrificing comfort, appealing to those who appreciate a slightly more engaged feel.
In conclusion, both the Bsun Light Sakura and Gateron Weightlessness switches cater to users who prioritize a quieter operation ideal for shared spaces. The Light Sakura focuses on an ultra-light, silent experience that minimizes disruption, while the Weightlessness offers a balanced tactile feel with subtle sound, creating a different yet comparable typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences, both switches present unique advantages that can enhance comfort and typing efficiency, making them excellent choices for different typing styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a light, quiet switch for long typing sessions and work in shared or open spaces, the Bsun Light Sakura is an excellent choice. Its 43-gram actuation force and silent operation make it exceptionally comfortable and ideal for reducing fatigue over prolonged use. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides tactile feedback without being intrusive and you appreciate a sound profile that balances subtleness with a gentle tactile bump, the Gateron Weightlessness switch may be more suitable for you. Although its bottom out force is not specifically stated, its tactile characteristics can enhance your typing experience without being overly loud. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a silent, lightweight feel with the Light Sakura or a balanced tactile sensation with the Weightlessness switch. Assess your typing habits, sound sensitivity, and the contexts in which you'll be using your keyboard to make the best decision for your needs.
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