Outemu Silent White vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Silent White and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer unique characteristics to consider. The Silent White is a linear switch with a reputation for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a silent typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura stands out as a tactile switch known for its snappy response and buttery downstroke, offering a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, whether you value silence while typing or enjoy a tactile experience. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Silent White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which results in a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through brightly. These similarities in the top housing material suggest that both switches may offer a similar sound experience with a focus on clarity and sharpness.
The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Silent White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura differs in material but both provide a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is characterized by its softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a dulled and rounder sound. In this case, the differences in bottom housing material might impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing. However, the shared quality of creating a fuller sound suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and richness.
The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Outemu Silent White and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura ensures that each component contributes unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The top housing primarily influences the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. By incorporating different housing materials, both switches offer a balance of sharpness and fullness in sound, providing users with a diverse and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, the actuation force of the Silent White is lighter at 45 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams. However, both switches have the same bottom out force of 60 grams, making them equal in that aspect. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Silent White for a more effortless typing experience, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Purple Sakura for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them well-suited for quick and responsive typing or gaming experiences. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance for faster response times when pressing keys. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and deliberate keypress, the slightly longer travel distance of the Outemu Silent White switch may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and typing style.
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 Silent White 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
The Outemu Silent White switch and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch both offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent White switch is known for its lack of sound, providing a silent typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch offers a mild and neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various environments. When it comes to feel, the Silent White switch's characteristics are unknown, while the Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery, mild, and snappy. This means that typing on the Purple Sakura switch will result in a smooth, gentle, and responsive keystroke experience.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent White and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches differ in their sound and feel qualities, they both offer a pleasant typing experience for users. If you are looking for a silent option with a neutral sound profile, the Silent White switch is a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a buttery and snappy feel, the Purple Sakura switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a neutral sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes, the Outemu Silent White linear switch would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a snappy response, a buttery downstroke, and a pronounced but not overpowering tactility, then the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a smooth and fluid keystroke experience (Purple Sakura) or a more neutral and versatile switch (Silent White). Happy typing!
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