Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the HMX Swift. The Purple Sakura is a tactile switch known for its snappy response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. On the other hand, the HMX Swift is a linear switch that stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings. While the Purple Sakura is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Snappy', the Swift is labeled as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you make the best choice for your typing experience.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the HMX Swift differ in terms of the top housing. The Purple Sakura utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Swift features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. These differences in top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch.
On the other hand, both the Purple Sakura and the HMX Swift share the use of nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out a key. The similarities in bottom housing material between the two switches suggest that they may offer a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. However, the impact of the bottom housing material on the overall typing experience should not be overlooked, as it can play a significant role in the overall sound profile of a switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for mechanical keyboard switches can have a significant impact on the sound and feel of typing. The differences between the polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Sakura and the nylon top housing of the HMX Swift highlight how varying materials can result in distinct sound profiles. While the bottom housing material may be the same for both switches, the split between the top and bottom housing qualities can still influence the overall typing experience. Whether aiming for a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, understanding the characteristics of different housing materials can help in choosing the right switch for individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, one can see differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Purple Sakura has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Swift's lighter 42 grams. This means that the Purple Sakura requires more pressure to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Purple Sakura is also higher at 60 grams, compared to the Swift's 50 grams. This indicates that the Purple Sakura will provide a more substantial typing experience as it requires more force to fully press down the key. In terms of weight, the Swift is lighter overall, making it more suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura's heavier forces may appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9mm. This means that the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance compared to the Swift. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments and preferences. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch has a clacky sound signature, which is sharp and percussive, adding a unique auditory experience to typing. The sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Purple Sakura switch is praised for its buttery downstroke, mild tactility, and snappy response, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Swift switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, feathery feel, bouncy feedback, and creamy keystrokes, making typing comfortable and reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch and the HMX Swift switch each bring their own set of subjective qualities to the table. The Purple Sakura switch offers a neutral sound profile, buttery feel, and delicate tactility, while the HMX Swift switch provides a clacky sound, easy-to-press feel, bouncy feedback, and creamy keystrokes. Based on the descriptions provided, it is apparent that while these switches offer different experiences, they both aim to enhance the typing experience with their distinct characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the Purple Sakura and the Swift switch will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, a buttery and snappy typing experience, and a neutral sound profile, then the Purple Sakura would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel, and a clacky sound profile, then the HMX Swift would be more suited to your preferences. Consider factors such as sound, feel, actuation force, and typing experience to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches rests on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you as you type away on your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
