SP-Star Meteor White vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, there are some distinct differences to consider. The Meteor White is a linear switch that offers a soft and gentle typing experience with a subtle pitter-patter sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura is a tactile switch known for its snappy response and buttery downstroke, providing a satisfying tactile feedback without being overpowering. While the Meteor White is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished', the Purple Sakura falls into categories of 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Snappy'. 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
57g
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
Nylon
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
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura both utilize nylon for their bottom housing material, which results in a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of switches creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer nature, allowing for a more satisfying typing experience. However, the Meteor White's nylon top housing contrasts with the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Sakura produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Meteor White's nylon top housing, resulting in a different auditory typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura stands out with its polycarbonate top housing due to its translucency, making it suitable for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White's nylon top housing provides a classic look and feel without the transparency of polycarbonate. While both switches offer unique qualities in their top housing materials, the choice between a clear and opaque top housing ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired visual appeal. Additionally, both switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and visual aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and fuller sound profile with their nylon bottom housing, the difference in top housing materials provides a noticeable contrast in sound characteristics. Whether you prefer the duller and rounder sound of nylon or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on which sound profile and visual aesthetic align best with your preferences and typing style.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, we find that the Meteor White has a lighter actuation force with None grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Meteor White requires 57 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Purple Sakura's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of bottom out force, but the Purple Sakura is considered to have a medium actuation force. When considering weight, lighter switches like the Meteor White can be conducive to extended typing or gaming sessions, while those preferring a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces like the Purple Sakura. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Meteor White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Purple Sakura's 3.2 mm. The 0.8 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Meteor White may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer unique benefits, and selecting the one that aligns with your preferences will ensure a comfortable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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, both the SP-Star Meteor White and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings and preferences. The Meteor White offers a thocky sound, providing a deep and satisfying tone, while the Purple Sakura presents a mild and neutral sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific setup of the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor White switch is characterized as offering a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery and snappy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a responsive touch. Both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, striking a balance between gentle tactility and responsiveness.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Meteor White provides a softer and more subdued typing experience with a thocky sound profile, the Purple Sakura offers a more tactile and responsive feel with a buttery keystroke sensation. Overall, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, both switches are designed to provide a pleasant and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience for users looking for a high-quality switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Meteor White if you prefer a gentle, soft linear switch with a pitter-patter sound profile and a medium-light bottom out force. This switch is best suited for those who enjoy a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Purple Sakura if you prefer a tactile switch with a snappy response and a buttery downstroke. This switch offers a balanced tactility, a subtle sound signature, and a medium bottom out force. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific typing experience and sound profile you are looking for.
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