Outemu Green vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come to mind are the Outemu Green, a clicky switch, and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, a tactile switch. The Outemu Green is best known for its clicky feedback, making it easy to audibly hear each keystroke. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura introduces a tactile experience with a snappy response and a smooth downstroke. The Green is categorized as linear, while the Purple Sakura is categorized as buttery, mild, neutral, and snappy. Choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
65g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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 Green and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate for the top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This quality is attributed to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. In terms of sound and aesthetics, these two switches offer similar results due to their shared polycarbonate top housing.
However, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Green and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura sets them apart in terms of sound profile. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound compared to polycarbonate. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches maintain a high level of sound quality and typing experience.
The split between top and bottom housing materials in these switches allows for a unique typing experience. The qualities of each housing material are felt differently when pressing down on the switch and releasing a key. The bottom housing's impact is more prominent in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when the key is released. This division of characteristics between the top and bottom housing materials adds complexity and nuance to the overall typing experience of the Outemu Green and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is clear that the Green switch is heavier overall. The Outemu Green has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, whereas the Sarokeys Purple Sakura has lighter forces with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Outemu Green switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch will offer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have a clicky sound profile, but the difference in force requirements will cater to different preferences. If someone prefers a lighter feel, they should opt for the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, while those who prefer a heavier keystroke should choose the Outemu Green. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Green clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Green switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Purple Sakura switch. For those who prefer a deeper key press and a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Green switch may be the better option. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch, with its shorter travel distance, may be favored by individuals looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
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 Green 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 comparing the sound of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, the Green is known for its loud and clicky sound signature, while the Purple Sakura offers a more neutral and moderate sound profile. The Green switch may provide a more pronounced and distinct typing noise, which some may find satisfying for typing feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch delivers a gentler sound that is suitable for various typing environments, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. Ultimately, the choice of sound experience between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
As for the typing feel, the Outemu Green switch is recognized for its tactile bump and clicky feedback that is satisfying for users who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery, mild, and snappy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke with a balanced level of tactility that is responsive and comfortable to type on. The Purple Sakura switch strikes a delicate balance between a gentle typing feel and a responsive feedback, making it a popular choice for users seeking a pleasant and consistent typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches have their advantages depending on individual preferences. The Green switch provides a loud and clicky typing experience with a tactile response, which may be preferable for users seeking a more expressive typing feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch delivers a neutral sound profile with a smooth and fluid keystroke, making it a versatile option for a wide range of typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you should consider your preference for a heavier or medium bottom out force. If you prefer a heavier key press, the Outemu Green switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch with its 60 gram bottom out force would be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a snappy and buttery typing experience with a mild and neutral sound profile, the Purple Sakura switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you desire.
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