Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gateron Type A offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Purple Sakura is celebrated for its tactile nature, providing a satisfying feedback with each key press, characterized by a buttery downstroke and a snappy response. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A boasts a linear design that prioritizes a smooth typing experience, with a focus on factory lubing techniques to enhance overall performance. While the Purple Sakura leans towards a mild and neutral sound signature, the Gateron Type A offers a deeper sound spectrum for those seeking a more subdued typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gateron Type A, one can see a stark contrast in terms of the top housing. The Purple Sakura boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and resulting sharp, high-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Type A features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, creating a deeper and fuller sound. While the Purple Sakura's top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Type A's nylon top housing provides a classic look and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches make use of nylon, a material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the differences in the top housing still play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of each switch. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gateron Type A ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound ideal for RGB lighting, while the Type A's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a similar overall sound profile, but the differences in top housing material will ultimately dictate the feel and sound of each switch. Whether you prefer a sharper, more resonant sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both have a similar actuation force of 50 grams, meaning that the amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Purple Sakura requires 60 grams of force, making it slightly heavier than the Type A, which only requires 55 grams to bottom out. This means that the Purple Sakura offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Type A provides a lighter touch that may be preferable for longer typing sessions. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of typing performance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is clear that the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm while the Type A has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura makes it ideal for those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers who require quick reflexes during gameplay. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Type A may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press and feel. Ultimately, the choice between a shorter or longer travel distance depends on personal preference and the level of tactility and feedback desired. Both switches offer different experiences that cater to individual preferences, with the Purple Sakura providing a quicker response and the Type A offering a more deliberate keystroke.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, whether typing at home or in a professional setting. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch also has a neutral sound profile but leans towards a more subdued sound, providing a dampened sound when pressed. The overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Purple Sakura switch is described as offering a buttery downstroke with a mild and snappy tactile response. This provides a smooth and fluid typing experience that is gentle yet responsive. In contrast, information about the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is unknown.
In conclusion, both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities. The Purple Sakura provides a buttery and snappy tactile experience with a neutral sound profile, while the Type A offers a subdued sound with unknown feel characteristics. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different subjective qualities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the following factors. Choose the Purple Sakura if you prefer a slightly higher actuation force and a tactile switch with a buttery downstroke and mild sound signature. This switch is great for those who enjoy a balanced and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron Type A if you are looking for a lighter actuation force and a linear switch with a subdued sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who appreciate a smoother and quieter typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
