Gateron Mini i vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Everglide Sakura Pink offer unique experiences for different typing preferences. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that provides gentle tactility with a fairly muted sound profile, making it ideal for quiet office environments where professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink is a linear switch that boasts a super light 35g actuation force, perfect for delicate typists looking for a smooth and effortless typing experience with a playful poppy sound. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, catering to different typing styles and preferences. 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
40g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Everglide Sakura Pink is that the Mini i utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, while the Sakura Pink employs polycarbonate for both housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and produces a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in material properties leads to distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
However, if we were to compare the nylon top housing of the Mini i with the polycarbonate top housing of the Sakura Pink, we would find some similarities in their sound profiles. Both materials allow for a clearer and resonant sound output, although the nylon may lean towards a deeper and fuller tone compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Sakura Pink's top housing makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the Mini i's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of visual customization but provides a different tactile experience to users.
In terms of overall typing experience, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing can greatly impact how a switch feels and sounds. The bottom housing of a switch, which comes into contact with the base plate, has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the Gateron Mini i's nylon housing may offer a deeper and rounder bottom-out sound, the Everglide Sakura Pink's polycarbonate housing may provide a crisper and more resonant typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two housing materials comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile for the user.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, it is clear that both switches are relatively light in terms of force required for typing. The Mini i has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Sakura Pink's 35 grams, but both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams and 45 grams, respectively. This means that while the Mini i may require a slightly heavier initial push, both switches offer a similarly light typing experience overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch to type for longer periods, either of these switches would be a good choice.
Travel distance
The Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch. The Sakura Pink offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Mini i provides a slightly shorter distance. Gamers may prefer the Mini i for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while others may find the Sakura Pink's longer travel distance to offer a more satisfying key press with greater depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between feedback and muted typing noise, making it suitable for a professional office setting. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink switch produces a delightfully poppy sound reminiscent of popping bubble wrap, adding a playful touch to your typing experience. Depending on your preferences and surrounding environment, you can choose between the neutral sound of the Mini i or the more distinct sound of the Sakura Pink switch.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mini i switch provides a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience with a mild and subtle resistance, enhancing the typing experience by offering low-impact feedback. Conversely, the Everglide Sakura Pink switch offers a buttery and creamy feel, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation with its frictionless operation. Whether you prefer a bouncy and responsive feel or a smooth and buttery typing experience, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy typing experience, the Mini i switch would be a good choice. However, if you enjoy a playful poppy sound and a smooth, buttery feel, the Sakura Pink switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in sound and feel for your typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, consider the environment and typing preferences that best suit your needs. If you are looking for a switch that provides a subtle tactility, quiet operation, and a balanced typing experience, the Gateron Mini i might be the better choice, especially for office or shared spaces where a muted sound profile is appreciated. On the other hand, if you prefer a super light actuation force, a smooth and effortless typing experience with a playful sound, the Everglide Sakura Pink switch could be the perfect fit for you, especially if you enjoy a lighter touch and a frictionless operation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the atmosphere in which you'll be using your keyboard.
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