Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can greatly affect your typing and gaming experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switches stand out for their refined tactile feedback, offering a medium-strength bump that many users appreciate for enhancing the feel of each keystroke, particularly during typing sessions. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, they cater to those who enjoy a tactile response that adds a layer of engagement without being overly pronounced. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink switches take a different approach with their super light actuation force of just 35g. Designed for those who prefer a smoother, frictionless experience, the Sakura Pink switches deliver a delightful and playful auditory feedback that resembles the satisfying sound of popping bubble wrap, making them ideal for delicate typists or gamers seeking swift key presses. While both switches have their unique charm and a specific target audience, they each offer distinct features that may cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches, a distinctly different character can be observed in their sound profiles. The Cherry MX Purple RGB utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer characteristics that yield a deeper, more resonant sound when typing. Nylon's ability to absorb sound contributes to a duller acoustic signature, resulting in a rich and rounded typing experience. In contrast, the Everglide Sakura Pink features a polycarbonate top housing that serves to produce sharper, crisper auditory feedback. This stiffer material allows for a more direct and resonant sound, which is especially noticeable when releasing keys. Consequently, if a user is drawn to a fuller, more muted typing experience, the MX Purple RGB’s nylon design may better suit their preferences.
In terms of bottom housing, the differences in material continue to influence the switch's overall sound profile. The Cherry MX Purple RGB retains its nylon bottom housing, which amplifies the deeper sound quality consistent throughout the switch, ensuring that the bottom-out experience complements its top housing's characteristics. Meanwhile, the Everglide Sakura Pink has a polycarbonate bottom housing, which further contributes to a brighter, more pronounced sound profile that pairs well with its top housing. This contrasting material combination results in an overall sharper acoustic experience in the Sakura Pink, setting it apart from its Cherry MX counterpart. Therefore, the user can expect a significantly different feel and sound when bottoming out the keys based on the choice of bottom housing material.
Ultimately, both switches leverage their unique housing materials to create distinct auditory experiences, appealing to different user preferences. While the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a more muted and substantial typing sound influenced by its nylon construction at both ends, the Everglide Sakura Pink delivers a sharper and more resonant sound due to its consistent use of polycarbonate. However, if users desire a level of compatibility in sound with a focus on RGB aesthetic, utilizing the MX Purple RGB's housing materials can create a visually striking experience, albeit with a different acoustic signature. Understanding these nuances allows users to make informed choices based on their typing preferences and sound profiles, ensuring a more tailored keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, notable differences emerge. The MX Purple RGB requires a higher actuation force of 45 grams, while the Sakura Pink has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams. This means that for those who prefer a more relaxed typing experience, the Sakura Pink may be more suitable, especially for prolonged use during typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the MX Purple RGB is unknown, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison in that regard. The Sakura Pink, on the other hand, has a bottom out force of 45 grams, suggesting a clear endpoint when the key is fully pressed down. This makes the Sakura Pink lighter overall compared to the Cherry MX Purple RGB, which may appeal to users looking for a more comfortable switch for extended periods.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is identical, measuring 4 mm. This means that users will experience similar keypress depth and feedback when using either switch, resulting in a comparable typing experience. Both switches are designed to provide a consistent feel, making them suitable for various typing preferences without any noticeable difference in the distance traveled when pressed down. Thus, anyone utilizing either of these switches can expect consistent performance and sensations during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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.
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 considering sound, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches are generally characterized by a refined acoustics profile that supports a tactile experience without being excessively loud. They produce a balanced sound that integrates well with the tactile bump, allowing for clear feedback while typing without drawing too much attention. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink switches are known for their muted sound, producing a softer, quieter keystroke that minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. This muted quality can be ideal for quieter environments where sound levels need to be kept down, giving the Sakura Pink an edge in discretion.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a well-defined tactile bump that provides substantial feedback during each keystroke, striking a balance that suits typists who appreciate a bit of resistance without overwhelming finger fatigue. In contrast, the Everglide Sakura Pink switches offer a significantly lighter touch with an actuation force of just 35g. They are described as buttery and creamy, providing not only a smooth and effortless keystroke but also a frictionless experience that allows for gliding motions across the keys. This makes the Sakura Pink an appealing choice for users who prefer a feather-light and fluid typing experience, enhancing comfort over longer typing sessions.
Overall, both switches cater to different preferences and types of users. The Cherry MX Purple RGB caters to those seeking tactile feedback with a modulated sound, making it suitable for a broad range of typing styles. Alternatively, the Everglide Sakura Pink switches appeal to users who prioritize a super light, smooth, and quiet typing experience. Depending on your typing style, each switch can provide a gratifying experience, but they will produce different auditory and tactile sensations. Ultimately, your choice should align with what you find most comfortable and enjoyable for your keyboarding tasks.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you appreciate a tactile typing experience with a noticeable bump and moderate feedback, the MX Purple RGB will likely suit you well, especially for typing tasks where you want to feel each keystroke without overly straining your fingers. Additionally, if you enjoy RGB aesthetics and want a switch that balances a refined tactile sensation with a unique sound profile, the MX Purple is an excellent option. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch and rapid key presses for gaming, or if you simply want a buttery, smooth typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue, the Sakura Pink switches are the better choice. Their feather-light actuation force and cream-like feel will provide an effortless, frictionless operation, making them ideal for extended use and fast-paced activities. In essence, your decision should align with whether you value tactile feedback or a lighter, smoother keypress, tailoring your keyboard experience to your specific needs.
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