Gateron Luciola vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Luciola and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Luciola stands out with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, and smooth, bouncy typing feel, accompanied by a distinctive sound profile akin to a can of spray paint being shaken. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura impresses with its tactile feedback, providing a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke that strikes a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. While the Luciola is characterized by a range of descriptors including 'Clacky' and 'High-pitched', the Purple Sakura is known for being 'Mild' and 'Neutral'. Both switches offer unique benefits, but ultimately, the choice between the two comes 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

Gateron Luciola Linear

Sarokeys Purple Sakura Tactile

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

$4.00

$3.15 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Luciola and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different materials. The Luciola's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a more pointed and high-pitched sound, while the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura's housing also makes it ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Luciola's INK blend bottom housing offers a satisfying, clacky sound, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile.

While the top housings of the Gateron Luciola and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer distinct sound characteristics, it is interesting to note that their bottom housings also contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Luciola's INK blend bottom housing adds to its high-pitched and clacky sound, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing promotes a deeper and more rounded sound. This split between top and bottom housing materials results in a unique typing experience that differs between the two switches. Additionally, the softer nylon material of the Purple Sakura's bottom housing allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller sound compared to the Luciola.

Overall, the choice of housing material in a mechanical switch plays a significant role in determining its sound profile. The Gateron Luciola and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura showcase how different materials can impact the overall typing experience. Whether it be the clacky and high-pitched sound of the Luciola or the sharp and crisp sound of the Purple Sakura, the housing materials of these switches contribute to their unique characteristics. While some similarities may exist in terms of sound quality between the top and bottom housings, the differences between the INK blend and polycarbonate, as well as nylon, ultimately offer users distinct options to consider based on their preferences.

Weight

The Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch both have a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a similar typing experience in terms of resistance when fully pressed down. However, when it comes to actuation force, the Luciola requires 55 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Purple Sakura only needs 50 grams. This means that the Purple Sakura is lighter to activate, making it more responsive to lighter touches. This could be preferred by those who prioritize quick typing speeds or gaming. On the other hand, the Luciola offers a slightly heavier actuation force, which may be favored by individuals who prefer a more deliberate and intentional typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, we can see that the Luciola has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Purple Sakura's 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the keyboard market. Gamers may appreciate the quicker response time provided by the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura, while those seeking a more substantial key press may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Luciola. Overall, the difference in travel distance between these two switches is relatively small, so users can expect a similar typing experience with either option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound signature that is mild and approachable. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Luciola being more vibrant and percussive, while the Purple Sakura remains more subdued and suitable for various environments.

In terms of feel, the Luciola linear switch is characterized as snappy and buttery, offering a responsive and smooth typing experience. Additionally, it provides a polished finish that enhances the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura tactile switch also offers a buttery feel, along with a mild and snappy response. The balance of tactility in the Purple Sakura provides a comfortable typing experience without being overpowering, making it a versatile option for users seeking a tactile switch.

In conclusion, the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Luciola excels in providing a lively and bouncy typing feel with a clacky sound profile, while the Purple Sakura offers a more subtle tactility and a neutral sound signature. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the vibrant and responsive characteristics of the Luciola or the balanced and gentle qualities of the Purple Sakura for their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and are sure to enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard world.

Conclusion

In summary, when choosing between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a keyboard switch with a unique glow-in-the-dark feature, medium bottom out force, and a clacky or chirpy sound profile, the Luciola may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a snappy tactile response, buttery downstroke, and a neutral sound profile, the Purple Sakura could be the better option. Both switches offer their own set of characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what type of typing experience you are looking for. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your personal preferences for sound and feel to enhance your typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Luciola Linear

$7.50

$6.50 per 10

Learn more

Sarokeys Purple Sakura Tactile

$4.00

$3.15 per 10

Learn more