Outemu Blue vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Blue and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. The Outemu Blue is a clicky switch that is best known for its tactile feedback and audible click with each key press. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura is a tactile switch renowned for its snappy response and smooth downstroke. The Purple Sakura offers a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced yet not overpowering, resulting in a mild and neutral sound signature when typing. While the Blue switch may appeal to those who enjoy the satisfying click sound, the Purple Sakura switch is preferred by those seeking a buttery feel and precise response. 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
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the Outemu Blue and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches feature polycarbonate top housings, meaning they will both deliver a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar sound experience and visual effect when using either the Blue or Purple Sakura switches.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of the Outemu Blue and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer a contrasting typing experience. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a distinct feel and sound when typing on these switches. Users who prefer a duller and rounder sound may lean towards switches with nylon bottom housings, while those seeking a crisper and sharper sound may opt for switches with polycarbonate top housings.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the qualities of each material are distributed differently between the top and bottom housings of a switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This division of housing materials in the Outemu Blue and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches highlights the nuanced experience that users can expect based on the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in each switch.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a similar typing experience when it comes to triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Blue switch has an unknown bottom out force, while the Purple Sakura switch requires a heavier 60 grams of force to fully press down. This means that the Blue switch may provide a lighter typing feel overall compared to the Purple Sakura switch, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, the Purple Sakura switch would be the better option due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to individual preference for typing style and desired tactile feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Purple Sakura's 3.2 mm. This means that the Blue switch offers a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Purple Sakura. The longer travel distance of the Blue switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura switch may be favored by individuals looking for a quicker response time. Both switches offer varying levels of tactile feedback, with the Blue providing a clicky feel and the Purple Sakura featuring a tactile bump. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing 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 Outemu Blue 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 Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky sound, making it great for those who enjoy an audible typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various environments and preferences. The sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue switch is often described as providing a tactile and clicky typing experience. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is characterized by its buttery and mild feel, offering a smooth and gentle typing sensation with a snappy response. This makes the Purple Sakura switch versatile and comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, while the Outemu Blue and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, their performance can provide similar results depending on the user's preferences. The Outemu Blue switch is ideal for those seeking a loud and tactile typing experience, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch caters to individuals looking for a more subdued and smooth typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a clicky and light feel with no bottom out force and prefer a more pronounced sound profile, the Outemu Blue switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a buttery and snappy tactile response, and a neutral sound profile, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch could be a better fit. Consider your typing needs and desired experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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