Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Kailh Sage stand out for their unique characteristics. The Purple Sakura is a tactile switch that offers a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of pronounced tactility without being overpowering. The sound signature is mild and neutral, making it a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage is a clicky switch known for its distinct clicky typing experience. With a heavy weight and sharp clickiness, the Sage switches provide an invigorating and crunchy feel while typing. Each switch has its own strengths and 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Kailh Sage, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. This similarity in material choice suggests that users can expect comparable auditory experiences when typing on either the Purple Sakura or the Kailh Sage.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Purple Sakura features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, emphasizing the importance of the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switch. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches aim to provide users with a tactile typing experience that is influenced by the unique qualities of their housing materials.
Ultimately, the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience can be felt in different ways. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. By understanding the distinct properties of polycarbonate and nylon, users can appreciate how these materials shape the sound profiles and tactile feedback of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Kailh Sage. Whether it be a sharper, crisper sound from polycarbonate or a deeper, fuller sound from nylon, each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience in its own unique way.
Weight
In comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it is evident that the Sage has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Purple Sakura is 50 grams, while the Sage's actuation force is unknown. This means that while the Sage requires more force to fully press down, the Purple Sakura may feel slightly lighter when initially triggering a keystroke. This makes the Purple Sakura a good option for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the Sage is better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we can see that the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Sage has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Purple Sakura's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Sage's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches offer different levels of feedback and actuation, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is known for its crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on crispy autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Purple Sakura providing a more subtle and mild sound compared to the sharp and heavy clickiness of the Sage. It is important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycap material.
Moving on to the feel, the Purple Sakura switch is praised for its buttery and mild keystroke experience, offering a smooth and gentle typing sensation. The tactile feedback of the Purple Sakura is described as snappy, providing a responsive and lively feel to each keypress. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch is renowned for its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, offering a more intense typing experience with a firm actuation force. Both switches provide unique tactile experiences, with the Purple Sakura leaning towards a more approachable feel while the Sage offers a more intense and firm feedback.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinctive sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Purple Sakura provides a neutral sound profile with a buttery and mild feel, perfect for users seeking a balanced and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch offers a crunchy sound signature with invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, ideal for those who prefer a more intense and firm keystroke sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and fluid keystroke with a delicate tactile bump, along with a mild and neutral sound, the Purple Sakura would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and crisp tactile bump with a crunchy and invigorating clicky sound, the Sage switch may be more up your alley. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound when making your decision.
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