Haimu Neo White vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Neo White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer distinctive typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Neo White stands out with its medium weight, slightly reduced total travel, and smooth actuation due to the rare Ly stem. This switch is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral,' providing a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switches are known for their snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. Categorized as 'Buttery,' 'Mild,' 'Neutral,' and 'Snappy,' these switches offer a unique typing experience with a mild and neutral sound signature. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Haimu Neo White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. While both switches offer similar sound profiles due to their shared top housing material, the aesthetics may vary slightly between the two depending on the design choices made by the manufacturer.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Neo White and Purple Sakura feature nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This difference in material between the top and bottom housing allows users to experience a combination of sharpness and depth in the sound produced by these switches. The impact of the bottom housing is most noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the Haimu Neo White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer a similar sound experience due to their shared polycarbonate top housing, but differences may be more noticeable in the depth and fullness of the sound produced by their nylon bottom housing. Both switches prioritize sound quality and aesthetic appeal, making them suitable options for users looking for a combination of performance and style in their mechanical keyboards. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific typing preferences when choosing between these two housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Neo White has a lighter actuation force at None grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Neo White requiring 58 grams and the Purple Sakura needing 60 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Neo White may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, ideal for work or gaming. In contrast, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Purple Sakura may provide a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch is 3.6mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Purple Sakura being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Purple Sakura for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those seeking a more substantial keystroke may opt for the Neo White with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for a faster, more responsive feel or a more deliberate, tactile experience.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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 Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level, suitable for a variety of typing environments and preferences. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Haimu Neo White switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is known for its buttery and snappy feel, combining a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a super responsive touch. While the Neo White switch is more on the mild side, the Purple Sakura switch offers a more dynamic and lively typing sensation.
Overall, both the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a smoother and slightly weightier feel with a more neutral sound profile, the Neo White switch might be more up your alley. Conversely, if you enjoy a tactile switch with a buttery downstroke and snappy response, the Purple Sakura switch could be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preference for typing feel and sound profile. If you value a smooth and slightly reduced travel distance with a medium bottom out force, the Neo White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery and snappy tactile response with a moderate bottom out force, the Purple Sakura could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you find most enjoyable. So, whether you opt for the Neo White for its smooth actuation or the Purple Sakura for its tactile feedback, both switches offer a unique typing experience worth exploring.
Mentioned in this article
