KTT Mint vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer distinct experiences for users. The Mint is a linear switch that provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness and light feel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura is a tactile switch known for its snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. While the Mint is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Purple Sakura falls under 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making it important to consider your typing style 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in both the KTT Mint and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches are quite similar in terms of the top housing being made of polycarbonate. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting effects. This feature makes both switches ideal for those looking to customize their keyboard with vibrant lighting options.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Mint uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches will provide a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the KTT Mint and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offers users a balance of unique sound profiles. The differences in the two switches lie in the aesthetics and customization options, with the Mint's polycarbonate top housing catering more towards RGB lighting enthusiasts, while both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housing. Whether you choose the Mint or the Purple Sakura, you can expect a distinct sound profile that enhances your typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the KTT Mint linear switch with the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, we can see that the Mint is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Purple Sakura. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Purple Sakura has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Mint is ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura provides a slightly heavier push feel, which some users may prefer for a more solid typing experience. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to individual preferences, ensuring that users can choose the switch that best suits their typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, making it the longer option compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.2mm. The Mint offers a more traditional travel distance which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times and is favored by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prioritize a deeper key press or a quicker response time. Both switches offer a different typing experience, but either can provide satisfying results depending on your typing style and preferences.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch are described as having a neutral profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for various settings, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps you use, so keep that in mind when considering the overall sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Mint switch is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. This means that it provides a gentle typing sensation with a smooth finish, resulting in reduced friction and seamless key travel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch is described as having a buttery and snappy feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a responsive typing feel that brings a sense of liveliness to your typing sessions.
Overall, while the Mint switch offers a satisfyingly smooth linear feel with a light and fleeting typing experience, the Purple Sakura switch provides a snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a satisfyingly smooth linear experience with a light and fleeting type feel, then the Mint switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, a snappy response, and a decadently buttery downstroke that strikes a delicate balance in tactility, then the Purple Sakura switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a poppy thockiness and low-pitched sound with a mild and polished feel, or a neutral sound signature with a buttery, mild, and snappy typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities, so be sure to choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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