Durock Piano vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Durock Piano and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Piano linear switch with the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it becomes apparent that each offers a unique typing experience. The Durock Piano is lauded for its silky smooth feel and deep sound signature, making it ideal for those who prefer a frictionless and bassy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura provides a snappy response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. If you are looking for a linear switch that offers a pleasant typing feel, the Durock Piano may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a pronounced yet neutral feel, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura could be the better option for you. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Mystery material
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Piano and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura both play a significant role in determining the sound profile of the switches. The Piano's proprietary POM blend top housing is known for providing a deep and satisfying sound profile, while the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura allows for a more resonant and clear sound due to its stiffness. In contrast, the POM blend in the Piano offers a unique sound experience that is deep and satisfying. Despite these differences, both materials contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience by offering distinct sound profiles.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Durock Piano uses its proprietary POM blend, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura incorporates nylon. The POM blend of the Piano provides a uniquely deep sound profile, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Sakura elicits a fuller and deeper sound. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM blend. Although they differ in their composition and sound profiles, both bottom housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience by enhancing the sound produced when pressing down on the keys.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the switches, it becomes clear that each material brings its own qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing, whether made of POM or nylon, influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate or POM blend, affects the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials and their effects on sound profile, both the Durock Piano and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer unique and satisfying typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Piano linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Piano has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Purple Sakura is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Piano is not specified. Both switches offer a medium to medium-heavy typing experience, with the Purple Sakura being slightly lighter in terms of actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Sakura, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the Piano. Overall, both switches offer a balance between actuation force and bottom out force, providing users with a comfortable typing experience tailored to their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Piano linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, it is evident that the Piano has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Purple Sakura has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The 0.8 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers, who prioritize fast response times, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the longer travel distance of the Piano. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Piano linear switch is best characterized as having a deep and rich bassy sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches take into account other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps, which can further influence the overall sound produced.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Piano switch is known for its frictionless and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke that minimizes any sense of resistance. In contrast, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch provides a buttery and mild typing sensation, striking a delicate balance between smoothness and tactility. Additionally, the Purple Sakura switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience that feels lively and engaging.
Overall, while the Durock Piano linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches provide a pleasant typing experience in their own right. Whether you prefer a deep bassy sound with a frictionless feel or a neutral sound with a buttery and mild typing sensation, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Piano linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a smooth and effortless typing feel with a deep, creamy sound signature, the Piano may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy response and a decadently buttery downstroke with a delicate balance of tactility, the Purple Sakura could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a frictionless, silky typing experience with a bassy sound profile (Piano) or a buttery, mild, and snappy typing experience with a neutral sound profile (Purple Sakura). Choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences for an optimal mechanical keyboard experience.
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