Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Purple Sakura is a tactile switch known for its snappy response and buttery downstroke, offering a mild and neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Tangerine is a linear switch that boasts an incredibly smooth feel, thanks to its UHWMPE housings that provide a polished typing experience with a high-pitched clack. While the Purple Sakura is praised for its balance of tactility, and the Tangerine for its smoothness, both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the TKC Tangerine, we see that both switches feature unique properties that contribute to their sound profiles. The Purple Sakura utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Tangerine features a UHWMPE top housing, which produces a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound quality.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials of the Purple Sakura and the TKC Tangerine, we see a similar pattern of contrasting properties. The Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. In comparison, the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing offers a bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks when typing. Despite both materials influencing the sound profile of the switches, they provide different sound characteristics based on their composition.
Overall, the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the TKC Tangerine play a crucial role in shaping the sound experience of each switch. While the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing create a distinct sound profile with sharper and fuller tones, the Tangerine's UHWMPE materials offer a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Understanding the impact of housing materials on switch sound profiles allows for a more informed decision when choosing the right switch for individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that the Sarokeys Purple Sakura has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Tangerine's unknown actuation force. However, the Tangerine has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall under the medium force category, making them suitable for users who prefer a balanced typing experience. Those who enjoy a lighter touch may appreciate the Sarokeys Purple Sakura for longer typing sessions, while users who prefer a bit more resistance may find the TKC Tangerine more satisfying for a substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch, which has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Tangerine with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer reliable performance, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference on travel distance.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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 Purple Sakura offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch produces a high-pitched clack, providing a sharp and crisp sound when typing. When it comes to feel, the Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery, mild, and snappy, offering a smooth and responsive typing experience with a balanced tactility. Meanwhile, the Tangerine switch is characterized as frictionless, buttery, and polished, providing an incredibly smooth and effortless keypress with a refined finish.
Overall, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Purple Sakura is known for its mild and neutral sound signature, along with its buttery and snappy feel, striking a delicate balance between tactility and responsiveness. In contrast, the Tangerine switch stands out with its high-pitched clack sound and frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Whether you prefer a moderate sound profile with a balanced tactility or a sharp sound with an ultra-smooth keypress, both the Purple Sakura and the Tangerine switches will deliver satisfying typing experiences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a buttery and mild tactile feel with a neutral sound profile, the Purple Sakura may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a frictionless and polished linear switch with a high-pitched sound, the TKC Tangerine could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your personal preferences and typing style.
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