Gazzew LT vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew LT and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer unique experiences for users. The LT, a linear switch, is renowned for its deep, resonant thockiness and smooth keystrokes, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a bassy and low-pitched feel while typing. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura, a tactile switch, provides a snappy response and a buttery downstroke that strikes a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. With a mild and neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakuras are favored by those who appreciate a buttery and snappy typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and Sarokeys Purple Sakura differ in their housing materials, with the LT featuring a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. In contrast, the Purple Sakura utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. The top housing material of the Purple Sakura is especially useful for RGB lighting purposes, thanks to its translucency, while the bottom housing material of the LT provides a softer typing experience, absorbing more sound and resulting in a fuller sound profile.
Despite their differences, the LT and Purple Sakura housing materials both play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of the switches. The Gazzew blend top and bottom housing of the LT work in harmony to create a cohesive and rich sound experience, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Sakura offers a clear and resonant sound profile that is complemented by the nylon bottom housing. The softer nylon material of the Purple Sakura's bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that complements the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Gazzew LT and Sarokeys Purple Sakura housing materials will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. While the LT offers a softer and deeper sound profile due to its Gazzew blend housing, the Purple Sakura provides a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making them suitable options for individuals seeking specific sound profiles in their keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the LT has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Purple Sakura at 50 grams is higher than that of the LT, which has a force of None grams. This means that the Purple Sakura will have a slightly lighter feel when triggering a keystroke, but a slightly heavier feel when fully pressing down. Both switches fall into the medium range when it comes to bottom out force, with the LT being on the medium-heavy side. Ultimately, for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple Sakura may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the LT.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance from the top to the bottom. Having the same travel distance allows for a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is used. Overall, both switches offer a similar tactile feel and actuation point due to their equivalent travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Gazzew LT linear switch is known for its deep and rich bassy thockiness, creating a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it versatile and suitable for various typing environments. Depending on personal preference and setup, the LT will provide a bass-heavy and thocky sound, while the Purple Sakura will offer a more moderate and neutral acoustic profile.
When it comes to feel, the Gazzew LT does not have specific descriptors provided, so it is essential to consider its linear nature for a smooth and consistent typing experience. On the contrary, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch is described as buttery and mild, offering a gentle and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the switch is noted for its snappy response, providing a lively and responsive typing experience.
Overall, the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The LT delivers a deep and bass-heavy sound with a seamless glide, while the Purple Sakura provides a neutral and versatile sound signature along with a buttery and responsive typing feel. Both switches have their strengths, and choosing between them will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a deep, resonant thockiness and a seamless typing experience, the Gazzew LT switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy response, a buttery downstroke, and a delicate balance of tactility without being overwhelming, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you value the auditory symphony of the LT or the smooth and responsive typing experience of the Purple Sakura. Evaluate your preferences in sound and feel to make an informed decision on which switch best suits your typing style and preferences.
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