Outemu Milk Tea vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Milk Tea and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Milk Tea is known for its unique traits, being categorized as a tactile switch with no specific standout feature. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura is celebrated for its introduction as a tactile switch that offers a snappy response and a buttery downstroke experience. The Purple Sakura is further described as having a delicate yet pronounced tactility, resulting in a mild and neutral sound signature while typing. Both switches have their own appeal and strengths, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
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
Ly
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
The Outemu Milk Tea and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both use different materials for their top and bottom housing, resulting in unique sound profiles when typing. The Milk Tea utilizes a Ly top housing, which offers a bright and resonant sound when typing, while the Purple Sakura uses a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the Milk Tea's Ly and the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate both contribute to a distinct sound signature for each switch. While the Ly produces bright and resonant clacks, the polycarbonate creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for switches that utilize RGB lighting, giving the Purple Sakura an added aesthetic appeal. In terms of their bottom housings, both switches share the classic nylon material, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during typing.
The split between the bottom and top housing materials in each switch affects the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences, the Outemu Milk Tea and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both offer unique sound profiles thanks to their choice of housing materials. Whether it be the bright and resonant sound of the Milk Tea's Ly or the sharp and crisp sound of the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience for users looking for distinct auditory feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Purple Sakura is heavier at 60 grams, while the Milk Tea's bottom out force is not specified. This means that the Purple Sakura provides a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Milk Tea may be more suitable for individuals looking for a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is clear that the Milk Tea has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Purple Sakura's 3.2 mm. This means that the Milk Tea will provide a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Purple Sakura. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Milk Tea is more towards the traditional end of the spectrum, providing a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the 3.2 mm travel distance of the Purple Sakura is slightly shorter, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for either a deeper key press experience or a quicker response time.
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 Milk Tea 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 Milk Tea switch is known for an unknown quality, while the Purple Sakura switch has a neutral sound profile that is moderate and suitable for various typing purposes. Both switches offer a balanced sound signature, with the Milk Tea lacking a specific description but likely providing a similar typing experience in terms of noise level.
Moving on to feel, the Milk Tea switch does not have a specific description, but the Purple Sakura switch is known for its buttery, mild, and snappy feel. The buttery downstroke of the Purple Sakura provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, while the mild tactility ensures a gentle typing sensation. Additionally, the snappy response of the switch adds a lively feel to typing on the Purple Sakura.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Milk Tea and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milk Tea's specific sound and feel characteristics are unknown, the Purple Sakura stands out for its neutral sound profile and buttery, mild, and snappy feel. Depending on personal preference for sound and tactile feedback, newcomers to mechanical keyboards may find the Milk Tea and Purple Sakura switches to be appealing options for their typing needs. Ultimately, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Purple Sakura offering a more detailed description of its tactile qualities.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch known for a specific characteristic, the Milk Tea might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a medium bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch with a balanced tactility, a snappy response, and a buttery downstroke, then the Purple Sakura would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force, desired characteristics in a switch, and typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
