Outemu Black vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch stand out as popular choices. The Outemu Black is known for its smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile bump, making it a preferred option for those who prefer a consistent and uninterrupted typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura is praised for its tactile feedback, offering users a satisfying bump when a key is actuated, leading to a more engaging and responsive typing experience. While the Black switch provides a seamless and linear feel, the Purple Sakura switch offers a tactile sensation that is both pronounced and enjoyable. 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
65g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura are quite similar, with both switches using polycarbonate for the top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the bottom housing of both switches is made of nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Overall, both switches offer a balance of sharpness and depth in sound profile due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their housing materials.
While the top housing of both the Outemu Black and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura is made of polycarbonate, the difference lies in their bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of both switches lends a different quality to the overall typing experience, with a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. This creates a duller and rounder sound, adding a unique touch to the overall typing sound and feel of the switches. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches maintain a balance between sharpness and depth in sound profile thanks to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housing materials.
In terms of feel and sound, the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. The split between the qualities of the housing material ensures that each part of the switch contributes uniquely to the overall typing experience. Both the Outemu Black and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura showcase how a combination of different housing materials can create a harmonious balance between sharpness and depth in sound profile, resulting in a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch. The Black requires 65 grams of force to actuate and 82 grams to bottom out, while the Purple Sakura only needs 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This makes the Black switch better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, while the Purple Sakura switch is lighter and may be more comfortable for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that best fits their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Black switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Purple Sakura's 3.2 mm. The Black switch falls on the more traditional end of the spectrum, offering a deeper key press experience, while the Purple Sakura provides a shorter travel distance for quicker response times, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with the Black switch offering a more substantial feel and the Purple Sakura catering to those who prefer a swifter typing experience. Both switches have their advantages, and choosing between them would depend on individual typing preferences.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Black switch does not have a specific descriptor provided in the information available. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is known for having a neutral sound profile. This means that the Purple Sakura switch offers a moderate sound signature that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Black switch lacks a detailed description of its tactile feel. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as having a buttery downstroke, offering users a smooth and fluid typing experience. Additionally, the Purple Sakura switch is noted for its mild tactility, providing a gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users. The switch is also characterized as being snappy, indicating a high level of responsiveness due to its design with longer or dual-staged springs.
In conclusion, while the specific qualities of the Outemu Black and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches differ in terms of sound and feel, the available information showcases the unique characteristics of each switch. Depending on your personal preference for sound and tactility, you can choose between the neutral sound profile of the Purple Sakura switch or the unspecified sound profile of the Black switch. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a buttery feel and mild tactility, the Purple Sakura switch may be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy and linear typing experience, the Outemu Black switches would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactile response with a snappy feel and a buttery downstroke, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred typing feel and sound profile. The Outemu Black switches are more about the weight and linearity, while the Purple Sakura switches offer a tactile and responsive typing experience. Consider your preferences and needs when making your choice between these two switches.
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