Cherry MX Red vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Red and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura is a tactile switch that offers a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance with its pronounced tactility without being overpowering. While the Cherry MX Red is characterized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Purple Sakura is known for being 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Snappy'. Each switch has its unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, so it's essential 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
N/A
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Red and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both utilize nylon for their top housing material, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. However, the Purple Sakura also incorporates polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the MX Red. This difference in materials leads to a distinct sound experience for users, with the MX Red offering a duller and rounder sound while the Purple Sakura provides a more clear and resonant sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Cherry MX Red and Sarokeys Purple Sakura utilize nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when comparing the two switches. The shared use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches will provide a similar level of impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, maintaining a sense of familiarity for users regardless of the specific switch they choose.
Overall, the combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the Cherry MX Red and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches highlights the different sound profiles that can be achieved through varying housing materials. While both switches share the same bottom housing material, the unique qualities of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura's top housing set it apart from the MX Red, offering a crisper and more resonant sound experience. Whether users prefer the duller and rounder sound of nylon in the MX Red or the sharper and clearer sound of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura, both switches provide distinct options for customizing the sound profile of their keyboards.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch with an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the MX Red will require less force to register a key press, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the MX Red has an unknown value while the Purple Sakura requires 60 grams of force to bottom out. This makes the Purple Sakura a heavier option for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. For users looking for a switch that allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue, the MX Red may be the better choice. Alternatively, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more satisfying typing experience, the Purple Sakura would be the ideal option. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option. The MX Red switch provides a deeper keystroke, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Purple Sakura switch offers a shorter travel distance, ideal for individuals seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a more neutral sound that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. While the MX Red delivers a rich and bass-heavy tone, the Purple Sakura produces a mild and unobtrusive sound signature that is versatile and pleasant to the ear.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is characterized as textured, offering a tactile experience with noticeable friction when pressed. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke that is effortless and uniform. Additionally, the Purple Sakura switch is noted for its mild and snappy tactile response, striking a delicate balance between responsiveness and comfort.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Red switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch differ in their sound and feel qualities, both switches offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The MX Red excels in delivering a robust and tactile typing experience with a deep sound profile, while the Purple Sakura provides a more neutral and smooth typing sensation with a balanced tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, regardless of the choice, users can expect a high-quality and satisfying typing experience from both switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a deep sound profile and a responsive typing experience, the Cherry MX Red switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a snappy response, a buttery downstroke, and a moderate sound profile, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you are seeking and what feels most comfortable to you. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your typing style best.
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