Durock Light Tactile vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Light Tactile and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Light Tactile from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a softer typing experience compared to sharper tactile switches. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura by Sarokeys offers a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactile feedback. While the Light Tactile is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Purple Sakura falls under 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Snappy'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
52g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the Durock Light Tactile and Sarokeys Purple Sakura provide a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The differences in the bottom housing material between the two switches may impact the overall typing experience, with the type of sound and feel being influenced by the specific material used in each switch's bottom housing.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Durock Light Tactile and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offers a balance of sound characteristics for a satisfying typing experience. While the top housings contribute to the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housings have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite subtle differences in the housing materials between the two switches, users can expect comparable performance and sound quality due to their shared use of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housing components.
Weight
When comparing the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have similar actuation forces, with the Light Tactile being slightly heavier at 52 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Light Tactile switch is on the heavier side at 67 grams, while the Purple Sakura is lighter at 60 grams. The Light Tactile switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch offers a lighter typing experience, which is favored by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is clear that the Light Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.2 mm of the Purple Sakura. This means that the Light Tactile switch offers a slightly deeper key press feel compared to the shallower press of the Purple Sakura. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press experience may opt for the Light Tactile. Both switches offer a tactile feel, but the difference in travel distance can cater to different preferences in typing or gaming experiences. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
The Sarokeys Purple 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 Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 comparing the sound of the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch, both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound level that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Light Tactile switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. This means that it provides a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users, along with a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch is noted for its buttery, mild, and snappy feel. This implies a smooth, gentle, and responsive typing sensation that is also approachable to most users.
Overall, both the Durock Light Tactile and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile switch provides a gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile, while the Purple Sakura switch offers a snappy response and a buttery downstroke along with a mild sound signature. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can expect to get a similarly satisfactory typing experience with both switches. It is recommended to try out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Light Tactile or the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you enjoy a gentle tactility with a jelly-like sound and prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Light Tactile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy and buttery tactile response with a medium bottom out force, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura could be more suited to your taste. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and provide a comfortable typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either option. Make your decision based on the specific qualities that appeal to you the most when it comes to your mechanical keyboard switch preferences.
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