Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When contemplating between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the KTT Purple Star mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to consider their unique qualities. The Purple Sakura is a tactile switch that is celebrated for its snappy response and smooth downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Purple Star, a linear switch, stands out for its all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 45g bottom-out, making it ideal for those who prefer easy and comfortable typing. While the Purple Sakura leans towards a buttery, mild, and neutral typing experience, the Purple Star offers a smooth, easy-to-press, and low-pitched feel. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the KTT Purple Star both feature unique housing materials that significantly impact the sound profile of the switches. While the Purple Sakura uses a combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Purple Star utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Sakura creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the POM housing of the Purple Star produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a different auditory sensation for users.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the two switches, both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the KTT Purple Star offer a unique and pleasing sound experience. The use of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura's top housing allows for a more striking and crisp sound, perfect for those who prefer a sharper typing feel. On the other hand, the POM housing in the Purple Star creates a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to users looking for a softer and more soothing typing experience. Ultimately, both switches showcase the versatility of housing materials in creating distinct sound profiles for mechanical keyboards.
In terms of functionality, the choice between polycarbonate and POM housing materials in the top and bottom housing of the switches plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Purple Sakura allows for a balance between a sharper top-out sound and a deeper bottom-out sound. In comparison, the consistent use of POM in both top and bottom housing of the Purple Star results in a more uniform deep and muted sound profile throughout the typing process. Both switches offer a unique sound profile that caters to different preferences, demonstrating the importance of housing materials in enhancing the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Sakura has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Purple Star's lighter 43 grams. The bottom out force of the Purple Sakura is also heavier at 60 grams, while the Purple Star bottoms out at 50 grams. This means that the Purple Sakura provides a bit more resistance for typing, offering a more substantial typing experience, while the Purple Star is lighter, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches have a similar medium actuation force, but the Purple Sakura is slightly heavier overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance compared to the Purple Star. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance provides a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
In terms of sound, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to other switches. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can be further influenced by factors such as keyboard configuration and keycap choice.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch is known for its buttery and mild typing experience, with a snappy response that adds liveliness to each keystroke. The KTT Purple Star linear switch also offers a mild typing experience, with an easy-to-press design that requires minimal force to activate. Both switches provide a comfortable and gentle typing sensation that is well-suited for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and KTT Purple Star switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile with a buttery downstroke like the Purple Sakura, or a low-pitched sound with an easy-to-press design like the Purple Star, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, while each switch has its own unique characteristics, users can expect similar levels of quality and performance from both options.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom-out force, a buttery and snappy feel, and a mild, neutral sound signature, then the Purple Sakura might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force, a smooth and easy-to-press feel, and a low-pitched sound signature, then the Purple Star could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and typing habits.
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