Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring stand out as unique choices. The Purple Sakura offers a tactile experience that is described as buttery, mild, and neutral, with a snappy response that strikes a delicate balance. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a medium-high level of tactility thanks to its long, two-staged spring, resulting in deep, resonating thocks while typing. While the Purple Sakura leans towards a softer and smoother typing experience, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a more pronounced and sharp tactile feel. Each switch has its own distinct qualities and advantages depending on individual preferences and typing style. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Purple Sakura features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer properties. In contrast, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with this material.
The differing bottom housing materials of the Purple Sakura and the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Purple Sakura contributes to a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the clear and resonant sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. This difference highlights how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience for users. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, it is the bottom housing material that influences the key press and release sound and feel, showcasing the importance of material selection in switch design.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring demonstrate the impact of material choice on sound and feel in mechanical switches. The utilization of polycarbonate for the top housing in both switches results in a sharper sound profile, particularly when combined with RGB lighting for added visual appeal. However, the contrasting bottom housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura and Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, respectively, showcase how different materials can create unique typing experiences. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch determines its overall sound profile and tactile feel, highlighting the importance of material selection in mechanical keyboard design.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, we see that the Purple Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Shadow's 55 grams. However, the Purple Sakura also has a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Shadow's 63 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Purple Sakura, while those seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Shadow. Overall, while there are differences in force between the two switches, they both offer a similar typing experience within the medium force range.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it shorter than the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Purple Sakura offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it preferable for gamers or those who prioritize fast typing speeds. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some people may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether you prefer a shorter, more responsive feel, or a longer, more deliberate 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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 offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky, high-pitched sound with deep resonating thocks. The sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Purple Sakura switch is described as offering a buttery downstroke with a mild and snappy tactility, providing a smooth and gentle typing experience. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch provides a sharp and accented tactile bump with a bouncy and snappy feel, giving users a more pronounced and lively typing sensation.
Overall, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Purple Sakura provides a neutral sound and a buttery downstroke with mild tactility, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch produces a clacky, high-pitched sound with a sharper and more accented tactile feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different user preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches, consider the following guidelines: opt for the Purple Sakura if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force, a mild and neutral sound signature, and a buttery, mild, and snappy typing feel. On the other hand, go for the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, and a sharp, accented, snappy, bouncy, and stepped typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to your personal preferences for typing experience and sound.
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