Cherry MX Brown vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Brown and Huano Sakura represent two distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cherry MX Brown switches are often celebrated for their subtlety, offering users a gentle tactile bump and subdued audio feedback that strikes a balance between responsive typing and a quieter environment. This makes them an excellent choice for those who appreciate a textured feel while still wanting to maintain a level of discreetness in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches are designed with a feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making them perfect for extended typing sessions when comfort and ease of use are paramount. These linear switches provide a smooth experience devoid of tactile feedback, ideal for users who prefer a seamless flow while typing. Both switches have their merits, appealing 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
45g
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and the Huano Sakura, it's crucial to note that while both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, they differ in the material of the top housing. The MX Brown employs a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb sound better than harder plastics. This characteristic results in a rounded, muted acoustic signature that many users find satisfying while typing. The combination of nylon in both the top and bottom housings creates a cohesive experience, enhancing the tactile feel and sound profile through consistent material properties.
In contrast, the Huano Sakura utilizes a POK material for its top housing, which brings a distinct set of qualities to the switch. POK boasts a higher wear resistance compared to nylon, making it exceptionally durable and significantly enhancing the smoothness of actuation. Its higher coefficient of friction leads to a more pronounced clack during key presses, setting it apart from the MX Brown's muted response. However, the Sakura’s bottom housing, like the MX Brown's, is composed of nylon, ensuring that both switches share the same foundational characteristics in terms of sound absorption and tactile feedback when bottoming out. This duality allows the Sakura to achieve a unique balance between the smoothness of POK and the deep acoustic qualities of nylon.
Overall, while the MX Brown and the Huano Sakura differ in the material used for the top housing, they converge in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. This shared component means that both switches will exhibit a deeper sound profile when bottoming out, emphasizing tight tactile feedback. The distinction in top housing materials—nylon for the MX Brown and POK for the Sakura—results in different acoustic experiences during key release, showcasing the importance of both housing components in defining the overall typing experience. Whether seeking the rounded tones of the MX Brown or the clacky response of the Sakura, users can find satisfying auditory and tactile qualities in both switches, albeit experienced in subtly different ways.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Cherry MX Brown features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option that strikes a balance between sensitivity and feedback. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, which enhances its suitability for users who favor a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Thus, those who appreciate a more tactile typing experience with a stronger push feel might prefer the Cherry MX Brown, while users seeking a lighter and quicker keystroke will likely gravitate toward the Huano Sakura. Overall, the Cherry MX Brown is the heavier switch, whereas the Huano Sakura is the lighter alternative, providing distinct choices based on typing preference and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, we find a notable difference. The Cherry MX Brown has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Sakura offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the MX Brown provides a more substantial feel when pressed, catering to users who appreciate a hearty depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Sakura’s shorter distance appeals to those seeking faster response times, making it an attractive option for gamers who prefer quick, efficient input. Overall, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Sakura is the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, whereas the Cherry MX Brown is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
The Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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 Cherry MX Brown switches provide a distinct auditory experience characterized by a deeper and more resonant profile. Their bassy and low-pitched tones create a rich aural environment during typing, adding a satisfying layer to each keystroke. This is particularly appealing for users who enjoy a more immersive, acoustic experience as they type. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches feature medium acoustics with a feather-light touch, although specific descriptors for their sound quality are not provided. While the Sakura may not be as rich as the Browns, they still offer an enjoyable sound that works elegantly in quieter settings.
Regarding feel, the Cherry MX Browns are noted for their textured typing experience. This means that users may perceive a slight friction when pressing the keys, which can enhance tactile feedback and contribute to a more engaged typing style. In contrast, there isn't much detailed information about the tactile qualities or overall feel of the Huano Sakura switches. Given their feather-light touch, however, one could infer that they will provide a smoother and potentially friction-free experience, appealing to those who prefer a seamless keystroke without the added sensation of texture.
In summary, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switches excel in sound with their bassy, low-pitched tone, while they also offer a textured feel that can enhance the typing experience for some users. The Huano Sakura linear switches are tailored for a lighter touch with medium acoustics, making them suitable for extended typing without straining. However, the lack of detailed descriptors for the Sakura's sound and feel makes direct comparisons more challenging. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience, whether they seek the rich auditory depth of the Browns or the smooth, light touch of the Sakuras.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between Cherry MX Brown tactile switches and Huano Sakura linear switches ultimately hinges on your typing style and preferences. If you enjoy a typing experience that balances tactile feedback with a moderate force, the MX Brown is an excellent option. Its subtlety and gentle tactility make it suitable for users who appreciate a more deliberate keystroke and enjoy a deeper, basy sound profile during usage. These characteristics can enhance your typing accuracy while also providing a satisfying sensation when typing, making the MX Brown ideal for both casual and more focused tasks. On the other hand, if you prioritize an ultra-light touch and smooth keystrokes, especially for extended periods, you might gravitate towards the Sakura switches. Their lighter actuation force and medium acoustics provide a comfortable and swift typing experience, perfect for those who type quickly or prefer a seamless transition between keys. In the end, both switches cater to different preferences: choose the MX Brown for a tactile yet subtle experience and the Sakura for a feather-light, linear feel that excels in speed and ease.
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