Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Huano Sakura

Overview

When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options emerge: the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Huano Sakura. The Crystal Brown is a tactile switch that provides a discernible bump during key press, catering to typists who appreciate feedback to enhance accuracy while typing. This can be particularly appealing for those who prefer a more engaging feel when inputting text, making it a solid choice for productivity. In contrast, the Huano Sakura is a linear switch known for its smooth, uninterrupted key travel and feather-light touch, making it ideal for rapid, continuous typing and gaming. With its medium acoustics, the Sakura allows for extended typing sessions without overwhelming noise, which can benefit those who work in shared spaces or at night. While both switches serve distinct preferences—tactile feedback versus smooth operation—each has its unique merits for different types of users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown and Huano Sakura switches, the materials used in their top housings present distinct differences that significantly impact the sound profile of each switch. The Crystal Brown utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, known for its rigid properties that contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile. This advantage is particularly pronounced if one plans to incorporate RGB lighting, as the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows light to permeate effectively, creating a visually striking effect. In contrast, the Sakura's top housing is made from POK, a material renowned for its smoothness and exceptional durability. While both materials enhance the auditory experience, the POK's slightly higher coefficient of friction contributes to a smoother typing experience, though it lacks the clear sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate.

In terms of the bottom housing, both switches opt for nylon, which plays a critical role in shaping the overall acoustic and tactile experience. Nylon is traditionally known for delivering a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound waves compared to harder plastics. This shared bottom housing material means that both the Crystal Brown and Sakura switches will exhibit similar characteristics in terms of sound dampening and the overall feel while typing. However, the differing top housings create a nuanced distinction in how sound is perceived; with the polycarbonate top of the Crystal Brown elevating the sharpness and resonance, while the POK top of the Sakura enhances smoothness but remains softer on sound clarity.

Ultimately, the interplay between the differing top materials and shared nylon bottom housing illustrates how the two switches achieve their unique sound profiles. If a user is seeking a sound characterized by clarity and resonance, the polycarbonate top of the Crystal Brown may be more appealing, whereas those who prioritize smoothness and durability might find the POK top of the Huano Sakura preferable. Regardless, the nylon bottom on both switches guarantees a fuller and deeper auditory experience, emphasizing the importance of material selection in achieving distinct yet complementary sound qualities.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch to the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Crystal Brown requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which falls into the medium-light category. In contrast, the Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a softer keystroke experience. This difference means that the Sakura switch is generally easier to press, which can facilitate longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the heavier feel of the Crystal Brown may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience. In summary, if ease of use and less strain is your priority, the Sakura is the lighter option, while those seeking a sturdier feedback will likely prefer the heavier Crystal Brown switch.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch, the differences are quite evident. The Crystal Brown boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sakura offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Crystal Brown the switch with the longer travel distance, catering to users who appreciate a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Sakura's 3.6 mm travel distance aligns with the growing trend toward shorter distances, often favored by gamers seeking quicker response times. Therefore, if you prefer a deeper, more tactile experience, the Crystal Brown would be the better option, whereas those who enjoy a more responsive, albeit slightly abrupt, feel may lean towards the Huano Sakura.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch lacks a definitive acoustic profile, making it somewhat ambiguous in its auditory characteristics. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switch is known for its medium acoustics, which create a more satisfying auditory experience during use. This consistent yet understated sound profile can enhance the typing experience, particularly during extended sessions, while still being subtle enough not to be distracting.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown is characterized by a tactile response that provides feedback without being overly pronounced. This allows for a gentle interaction that can be ideal for those who appreciate some feedback without the pronounced bump found in other tactile switches. In contrast, the Huano Sakura switch offers a feather-light touch, ensuring that each keystroke requires minimal effort. This can lead to a more effortless typing experience, especially during lengthy use, as the lighter actuation force reduces finger fatigue.

Overall, while the Outemu Crystal Brown and Huano Sakura switches cater to different preferences and experiences, they both provide unique benefits. The Crystal Brown may appeal to those who appreciate a smooth, tactile experience without much emphasis on sound, while the Sakura tends to favor a light touch with an acoustic edge that can enhance the overall typing enjoyment. Choosing between them ultimately depends on whether one prioritizes tactile feedback or a lighter, more fluid keystroke.

Conclusion

In conclusion, your choice between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Huano Sakura linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a tactile experience that provides a gentle bump to signal key actuation without being overly loud, the Crystal Brown's medium-light resistance of 55 grams is ideal for frequent typing sessions, especially when you appreciate a bit of feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother and quieter typing experience, particularly for extended periods, then the Huano Sakura's lighter 45-gram actuation force and linear design will deliver a feather-light touch that requires minimal effort, making it perfect for gaming or writing without distraction from noise. Thus, consider what aspects of typing are most important to you—whether it's tactile feedback or a streamlined linear feel—before making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more