Durock Medium Tactile vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Medium Tactile from Durock is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switches are known for their snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance between tactility and sound. While the Medium Tactile is categorized as 'Accented', 'Stepped', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Purple Sakura falls into the categories of 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Snappy'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that could appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when deciding between the two. 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
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
Both the Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those looking for a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting, adding a touch of customization to any setup. Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in similar sound profiles and performance.
On the other hand, both switches differ when it comes to their nylon bottom housings. The Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura share a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon. This material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. The nylon bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a comfortable typing experience that is consistent across both switches. While the top housing may differ, the use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura deliver similar typing experiences due to their shared use of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings. Both switches offer a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile with the polycarbonate top housing, while providing a deeper and fuller sound with the nylon bottom housing. Whether you're looking for a clear and resonant typing experience or a duller and rounder sound, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal aesthetic preferences or specific typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, we see a significant difference in their characteristics. The Durock Medium Tactile switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of triggering a keystroke, while its bottom out force is 65 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel when fully pressed. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it slightly lighter overall compared to the Durock switch. Both switches provide a tactile typing experience, but the Durock switch offers a heavier push feel when fully pressed, which may suit those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sarokeys switch offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch, we can see that the Medium Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Medium Tactile switch provides a deeper key press experience compared to the Purple Sakura, which offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Purple Sakura for its faster key presses, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Medium Tactile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium 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 it comes to sound, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, whereas the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a mild and neutral sound profile. Both switches provide a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Medium Tactile having a more unique characteristic while the Purple Sakura offers a more traditional and subdued sound.
In terms of feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as accented, stepped, mild, and polished, providing a balanced tactility that is not too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is praised for its buttery feel and snappy response, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience. Both switches strike a delicate balance in tactility, with the Medium Tactile leaning towards a more polished and refined feel, while the Purple Sakura focuses on providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Overall, both the Durock Medium Tactile and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Medium Tactile provides a more pronounced tactility and jelly-like sound, while the Purple Sakura offers a buttery feel and snappy response. Depending on personal preference, one may lean towards the refined and balanced feel of the Medium Tactile or the smooth and responsive typing experience of the Purple Sakura. Ultimately, both switches are solid choices for tactile switch enthusiasts seeking a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switches, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and an accented, stepped, mild, and polished feel, the Durock Medium Tactile may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a switch with a medium bottom out force and a buttery, mild, and snappy feel, along with a neutral sound profile, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura could be the perfect match for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how these characteristics align with your personal preferences and typing experience.
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