Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the TTC Speed Silver offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Purple Sakura's tactile switches provide a buttery downstroke with just the right amount of tactility, resulting in a mild and neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Speed Silver linear switches are designed for speed and precision, offering a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. While the Purple Sakura is best for those who prefer a tactile feel, the Speed Silver is ideal for users who prioritize quick and effortless actuation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
The housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the TTC Speed Silver are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to polycarbonate's stiffness, both switches offer a clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. In this aspect, the Purple Sakura and the Speed Silver will provide similar results in sound quality and aesthetics.
On the other hand, the housing materials differ in the bottom housing of the Purple Sakura and the TTC Speed Silver. The Purple Sakura features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Speed Silver also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities as the Purple Sakura. Both switches provide a rounder and duller sound experience thanks to the properties of nylon. The bottom housing of both switches will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the TTC Speed Silver are the same, their bottom housing materials differ slightly. Both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences based on the properties of their housing materials. Whether it be the sharper, crisper sound from polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound from nylon, users can choose between the two switches based on their preferred typing experience. In terms of aesthetics and performance, both switches deliver high quality and satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TTC Speed Silver linear switch. The Purple Sakura requires 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Speed Silver needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. This means that the Purple Sakura provides a slightly more resistant typing experience compared to the Speed Silver, which offers a lighter touch. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Speed Silver may be the better option, as it allows for easier and quicker keystrokes. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial and satisfying typing experience, the Purple Sakura with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force may be the preferred choice. In both cases, users can expect a relatively similar typing experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, we find that the Purple Sakura has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Speed Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular for their quicker response times, particularly favored by gamers. However, the slightly longer travel distance of the Speed Silver may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth to their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter and more responsive feel or a slightly longer and more substantial 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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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, both the Purple Sakura and Speed Silver switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound suitable for most purposes. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Purple Sakura is known for its buttery downstroke, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience. Additionally, it offers a mild and snappy tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Speed Silver provides a mild and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable and easy typing experience that is suitable for most users.
In conclusion, both the Purple Sakura and Speed Silver switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Purple Sakura offers a buttery and snappy typing experience, while the Speed Silver provides a polished and smooth feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for tactility and sound. Regardless of the choice made, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you value a tactile switch with a balanced actuation force, a buttery downstroke, and a mild sound profile, the Purple Sakura would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience with reduced travel distance and a smooth key travel, the Speed Silver would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on whether you prefer a tactile or linear feel, as well as the specific sound and typing experience you are looking for. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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