Outemu Spring Breeze vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch stand out as popular choices. The Spring Breeze is known for its clicky feedback and satisfying sound when pressed, perfect for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a tactile experience with a snappy response and buttery downstroke, providing a more subdued typing sound. The Spring Breeze falls into the clicky switch category, while the Purple Sakura is categorized as a tactile switch. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Spring Breeze and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer and sound-absorbing qualities. This means that typing on both switches will likely result in a similar dull and round sound upon bottoming out. However, the top housing materials differ, with the Spring Breeze featuring nylon and the Purple Sakura utilizing polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, which may result in a crisper typing experience compared to the deeper sound of nylon.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the switches play a crucial role. The Spring Breeze's nylon top housing provides a classic look while offering a deeper sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing not only contributes to a sharper sound profile but also allows for the integration of RGB lighting due to its translucency. This means that users looking for a switch with customizable lighting options may prefer the Purple Sakura. Additionally, the differences in sound profiles created by the housing materials can cater to different preferences in typing experiences, with the Spring Breeze offering a softer, rounder sound and the Purple Sakura providing a clearer, more resonant sound.
Overall, while both switches incorporate nylon in their bottom housing, the choice of top housing material – nylon for the Spring Breeze and polycarbonate for the Purple Sakura – leads to distinct typing experiences. The Spring Breeze emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Purple Sakura focuses on creating a sharper and crisper sound. Depending on individual preferences for sound quality and aesthetics, users may find one switch more suited to their needs than the other. Ultimately, the housing materials play a significant role not only in sound production but also in the overall typing experience and customization options of each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Spring Breeze is lighter in both aspects. The Spring Breeze has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura tactile switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces in the Spring Breeze make it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier forces of the Purple Sakura provide a more substantial typing feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Overall, while both switches offer different levels of force, they cater to varying preferences for typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. In this case, the Spring Breeze has a longer travel distance compared to the Purple Sakura. A longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying keypress experience for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preferences, with the Spring Breeze providing a longer travel distance for a more pronounced keystroke, and the Purple Sakura offering a shorter travel distance for swift key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual typing or gaming preferences.
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 Spring Breeze 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 considering sound, both the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate level of sound that is suitable for various typing environments, whether it be at home or in a professional setting. The sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Spring Breeze switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, whereas the Purple Sakura switch is described as having a buttery downstroke, a mild tactile bump, and a snappy response. The buttery feel of the Purple Sakura switch suggests a smooth and effortless typing experience, while the mild tactile bump and snappy response add a level of responsiveness and tactility that is pleasing to many users. The overall feel of a switch is crucial in determining comfort and typing efficiency.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Spring Breeze switch may not have specific descriptors provided, its overall performance should still provide a satisfactory typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch is praised for its buttery downstroke, mild tactile bump, and snappy response, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a smooth yet responsive typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a clicky typing experience, the Spring Breeze may be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams, a neutral sound profile, and a buttery, mild, and snappy typing experience, the Purple Sakura could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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