Outemu Silver vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Silver and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. The Outemu Silver is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura is a tactile switch that offers a satisfying tactile bump with each press, accompanied by a pleasant sound signature. The Silver may appeal to those who prefer a consistent typing experience, while the Purple Sakura could be an excellent choice for individuals who enjoy the tactile feedback and snappy response. 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
1.60 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 Outemu Silver and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them both ideal for switches where clarity and resonance are desired, especially when using RGB lighting. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in clear housings enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches. While both switches utilize the same material for their top housings, any potential differences in sound profile may stem from other factors such as spring weight or stem design.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Silver and Purple Sakura utilize nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. This material choice adds a different aspect to the overall sound profile of the switches, complementing the qualities brought by the polycarbonate top housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing also affects the feel of the switch when pressed down, contributing to the overall typing experience.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Outemu Silver and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offers a balanced sound profile with a mix of sharpness and depth. While the differences in their respective top and bottom housings may impact the sound at specific points during typing, both switches provide a satisfying overall experience. The choice between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both materials offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall performance of the switches.
Weight
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silver requires 65 grams while the Purple Sakura only needs 60 grams. This means that the Silver is the heavier option overall, making it better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura is lighter and may be more comfortable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Both switches offer a different feel and cater to different preferences, with the Silver being heavier and the Purple Sakura being lighter in terms of force required for actuation and bottom out.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Despite the difference in travel distance, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Gamers may prefer the Silver switch for its longer travel distance, which can offer more stability and depth. However, those looking for a faster response time may opt for the Purple Sakura switch with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference 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 Silver 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 Outemu Silver linear switch and Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer different experiences. The Silver switch is known for a quiet operation, providing a smooth typing experience without much audible feedback. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch is described as having a mild and neutral sound signature, making it suitable for various settings and user preferences. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silver switch and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch again diverge in their characteristics. The Silver switch's tactile feel is not specified in the provided information, while the Purple Sakura switch is described as offering a buttery downstroke that is smooth and fluid. Additionally, the Purple Sakura switch features a snappy response, giving users a responsive and lively typing experience. With its mild and snappy attributes, the Purple Sakura switch provides a comfortable and approachable typing sensation for a wide range of users.
Overall, the Outemu Silver linear switch and Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch each offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Silver switch provides a quieter operation, the Purple Sakura switch stands out for its buttery and snappy tactile feel. Both switches have their own strengths and can deliver a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences. Whether you prefer a quiet and smooth operation or a more tactile and responsive feel, choosing between the Outemu Silver and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches will ultimately depend on your personal typing preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch, the Silver with 65 grams might be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Purple Sakura's 60 grams might be more to your liking. Additionally, if you enjoy a buttery and snappy typing experience with a moderate sound profile, the Purple Sakura would be a great choice. However, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound and feel, the Silver could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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