Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can significantly affect your typing experience, particularly between the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Everglide Sunset Yellow. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switch provides a refined tactile experience, characterized by a medium-strength bump that gives users satisfying feedback while typing, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer tactile sensations. In contrast, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch offers a linear design that delivers a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, paired with a captivating sound profile that resonates like the soothing chime of mahjong tiles. With its unique Ly stem and specialized factory lube method, Sunset Yellow switches offer effortless gliding and a rich, bassy auditory experience. Each switch caters to different preferences: go for the tactile feedback of the Cherry MX Purple if you enjoy a pronounced keystroke, or opt for the linear, sound-rich indulgence of the Everglide Sunset Yellow if you favor a seamless typing experience. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Purple RGB Tactile

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$6.19

$5.79 per 10

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches differ in composition, with the former utilizing nylon for both the top and bottom housings, while the latter employs POM. The nylon housing of the MX Purple RGB is known for its softer characteristics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Its ability to absorb sound contributes to a more muted auditory experience, creating a rounder sound that many users appreciate. In contrast, POM, used in the Sunset Yellow switch, is recognized for producing a distinct and pleasing sound, also leaning toward a deeper tone. However, while both materials deliver a unique acoustic experience, the Nylon’s slightly softer nature tends to yield a more pronounced bass response compared to the subtle nuances provided by the POM housing.

Both switches have their top and bottom housings crafted from different materials, which separate their acoustic characteristics even further. The MX Purple RGB's nylon bottom housing produces a more muted bottom-out sound, enhancing the smoothness and rounded feel when the key is pressed. The top housing, while nylon, maintains a cohesive acoustic quality that influences the sound profile when the key is released. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow's POM bottom housing contributes to a unique sound experience, with a slightly shorter decay and distinct auditory clarity. This means that when pressed down, users will notice the signature sound produced by POM, which complements the muted quality of the top housing, making for a unique auditory experience that is different from the MX Purple.

Ultimately, while both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches use different materials—nylon versus POM—their contrasting properties complement their specific sound profiles. In practical terms, a user seeking a deeper, fuller sound might lean towards the MX Purple RGB due to its nylon housing, whereas those looking for a unique sound profile might prefer the Sunset Yellow's POM housing. However, they will likely find that both switches still maintain a pleasing auditory feedback, albeit achieved through different materials. In essence, either switch can provide satisfying results, tailored to individual preferences in feel and sound, thus allowing users to choose according to their tactile experience and desired acoustic qualities.

Weight

When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, both switches exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Purple RGB requires an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Everglide Sunset Yellow has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Sunset Yellow switch is easier to press initially, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, the Sunset Yellow has a bottom out force of 51 grams, which contributes to a firmer feel when the key is fully depressed. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Purple RGB is unavailable, resulting in a lack of comparative data regarding how it feels when fully pressed. Therefore, while the actuation force is lighter in the Sunset Yellow switch, the overall experience may differ due to the unknown bottom out force of the Cherry MX Purple RGB, potentially making it less compatible with those seeking a heavier feel in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch exhibit notable differences in their travel distances, with the MX Purple RGB measuring a traditional 4 mm and the Sunset Yellow at a shorter 3.2 mm. This means that the MX Purple, with its longer travel distance, provides a more pronounced keypress, which some users may find satisfying, particularly those who appreciate a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow offers a shorter travel distance, appealing to gamers who favor quicker response times and more rapid key presses. While both types of switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback and responsiveness, the choice ultimately depends on individual taste: those who enjoy a deeper, more substantial keypress might prefer the Cherry MX Purple, while those seeking speed and agility in their typing or gaming may gravitate towards the Everglide Sunset Yellow.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, the differences are notable. The MX Purple RGB is not explicitly detailed in terms of sound, but as a tactile switch, it typically produces a more pronounced click or bump without the deeper resonance of linear switches. In contrast, the Sunset Yellow is characterized by its captivating sound quality, described as bassy and thocky, which provides a deep, rich auditory feedback that resembles the pleasing sound of mahjong tiles colliding. This bassy quality offers a unique and indulgent typing experience, making the Everglide Sunset Yellow a more sonically engaging choice for those who enjoy pronounced sound feedback while typing.

In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is noted for its refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump, offering a satisfying tactile feedback that appeals to users looking for a distinct response with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switches provide an entirely different sensation; they are creamy, frictionless, and polished. This blend offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, characterized by a buttery glide that makes keystrokes feel incredibly fluid. Users who appreciate tactile feedback might gravitate towards the MX Purple, while those who prefer a more velvety and refined touch will find the Sunset Yellow appealing.

In summary, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and Everglide Sunset Yellow switches present distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different user preferences. The MX Purple RGB offers a tactile feedback appreciated by typists who enjoy a defined bump, while the Sunset Yellow lures users with its rich sound profile and exceptionally smooth feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on whether you prioritize a satisfying tactile response or a luxurious, frictionless typing experience; understanding these differences will help you select the switch that best aligns with your personal typing style.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you gravitate towards a tactile experience that offers a clear bump without excessive resistance, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be an excellent fit for you. Its refined tactile feedback is ideal for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation while typing, making it a solid option for both gaming and typing where tactile confirmation is appreciated. Conversely, if you lean towards a smoother, quieter typing experience, the Everglide Sunset Yellow is likely to be your go-to. Its rich, bassy sound profile and creamy feel create an indulgent typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions or for those who appreciate a seamless glide over the keys. Additionally, the medium-light actuation force of the Sunset Yellow caters to a broader range of users, making it accessible whether you're a novice or seasoned typist. In essence, your decision hinges on the importance you place on tactile feedback versus smoothness; both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Purple RGB Tactile

$6.19

$5.79 per 10

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Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more