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Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura

An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct approaches to tactile switches. The Dustproof Brown, with its lack of standout features, falls into a more conventional category. In contrast, the Purple Sakura stands out with its introduction emphasizing a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke. The Dustproof Brown is best suited for those looking for a reliable and standard tactile switch experience, while the Purple Sakura appeals to users seeking a more pronounced tactility without being overwhelming. 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

65g

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

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

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

22mm lengthened single-staged spring

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, it is clear that they both use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Dustproof Brown and Purple Sakura differ in their bottom housing material, with the Dustproof Brown using nylon and the Purple Sakura also incorporating nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.

Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Sarokeys Purple Sakura will still offer similar sound profiles due to the shared material. However, the impact on sound and feel will differ when it comes to the bottom versus the top housing. The bottom housing's qualities will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. This distinction showcases how the housing materials can contribute differently to the overall typing experience of each switch.

Overall, both switches showcase the benefits of utilizing polycarbonate in their top housing for a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. The incorporation of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches also contributes to a fuller and deeper sound. While the differences between the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura lie primarily in their bottom housing material, the overall typing experience offered by these switches will be quite similar due to the shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.

Weight

The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown requires 65 grams while the Purple Sakura requires 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range when it comes to bottom out force, but the Dustproof Brown is slightly heavier overall. This means that the Dustproof Brown may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Purple Sakura may be more suitable for longer typing sessions due to its slightly lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight preference.

Travel distance

The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Dustproof Brown has a longer travel distance compared to the Purple Sakura. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Dustproof Brown is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.2 mm travel distance of the Purple Sakura offers a shallower key press, making it ideal for those who prefer a faster response time, such as gamers. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance providing quicker responsiveness and the longer travel distance offering a more satisfying key press depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.

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 Dustproof Brown 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

In terms of sound, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is known for its neutral sound profile. The neutral sound profile of the Purple Sakura switch indicates a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, making it suitable for various typing environments. The sound produced by a switch is not solely determined by the switch itself but can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch does not have a specific feel descriptor mentioned. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery, mild, and snappy. The buttery feel of the Purple Sakura switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the mild characteristic of the switch offers a gentle typing experience that can be suitable for a wide range of users. The snappy response of the switch indicates a high level of responsiveness, making typing feel more lively.

Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Brown switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, the Purple Sakura switch is known for its neutral sound profile, buttery feel, mild typing experience, and snappy response. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Since the Dustproof Brown switch lacks specific descriptors, it is possible that it may offer similar results to the Purple Sakura switch in certain aspects.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force at 65 grams and are looking for a switch with no specific standout feature, the Dustproof Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 60 grams and are seeking a switch with a buttery and snappy typing experience characterized by a mild and neutral sound profile, then the Sarokeys Purple Sakura would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure the best mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.

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