Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it ultimately depends on the typing experience you prefer. The Purple Sakura is praised for its snappy response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Sea Glass offers a unique typing experience with its dryness, wispiness, and airiness, despite its weighty bottom-out force. While the Purple Sakura exudes a mild and neutral sound signature, the Sea Glass produces a hollow sound that adds to its charm. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Durock Sea Glass, we see distinct differences in the choice of materials for both the top and bottom housing. The Purple Sakura features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Sea Glass opts for a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, offering a more unique sound profile that is described as pleasant and bright. While both materials aim to enhance the sound experience, the choice between polycarbonate and the unique blend in the Sea Glass presents a trade-off between a sharper versus a brighter sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Purple Sakura utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. Meanwhile, the Sea Glass also employs the same Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its bottom housing. This unique blend offers a pleasant sound profile that is slightly brighter, setting it apart from the traditional nylon housing material used in the Purple Sakura. Both materials strive to enhance the typing experience, with the choice between nylon and the blend in the Sea Glass offering a difference in sound depth and tone.
While the housing materials for both switches differ in terms of the top and bottom components, the impact of each material on the overall sound profile is evident. The qualities of the top housing, whether it be polycarbonate or the unique blend in the Sea Glass, play a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. On the other hand, the bottom housing material, whether nylon or the blend, influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience allows for a nuanced comparison between the Purple Sakura and the Sea Glass, showcasing the importance of material selection in switch design.
Weight
In comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force of the Purple Sakura is slightly heavier at 50 grams compared to the Sea Glass at 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Sea Glass requires a slightly higher force of 62 grams compared to the Purple Sakura at 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium weight category, making them suitable for a balance between typing comfort and feedback. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Durock Sea Glass, while those who enjoy a bit more tactile feedback may opt for the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. Ultimately, whether one switch is lighter or heavier comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, which is shorter than the Durock Sea Glass linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Purple Sakura will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Sea Glass offers a longer travel distance for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, but the Purple Sakura will feel more responsive while the Sea Glass will offer a bit more depth in each key press.
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 Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 Purple Sakura switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Sea Glass switch provides a uniquely hollow sound signature that adds a touch of character to the typing experience. Both switches have distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall satisfaction of typing, depending on individual preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the Purple Sakura switch offers a buttery and snappy typing experience that is smooth, fluid, and responsive. The Sea Glass switch, on the other hand, provides a frictionless and feathery feel that is light and effortless to press. Both switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, but with slightly different characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Considering all the available information, both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch offer unique and appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile with a buttery downstroke or a hollow sound signature with a frictionless typing experience, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, users can expect a high level of satisfaction and performance from both switches, as they both deliver top-notch quality in their respective categories.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you enjoy a snappy and buttery typing experience with a mild and neutral sound signature, the Purple Sakura may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and airy typing experience with a weightless feel and a uniquely hollow sound signature, the Sea Glass switch may better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific characteristics that appeal to you the most. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your individual needs and preferences.
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