Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, a tactile switch, and the Gateron Type L, a linear switch. The Purple Sakura is praised for its tactile feedback, offering a snappy response and a smooth downstroke that strikes a delicate balance between pronounced and subtle. With a mild and neutral sound signature, typists can enjoy a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L stands out for its lightness and ease of use, requiring only 45g to bottom out. This switch also boasts a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While the Purple Sakura is known for its buttery feel and the Type L for its feathery touch, 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
38g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiff plastic composition. This material is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L utilizes a nylon top housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. Despite their differences, both housing materials offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Purple Sakura and the Type L incorporate a nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. The softer nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, creating a more muted and rounded sound compared to harder plastics. While the bottom housing may not be as visually prominent as the top housing, its impact on the overall sound experience should not be underestimated.
Overall, the choice between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gateron Type L ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Sakura offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Type L provides a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to those who prefer a more rounded sound. Regardless of the housing materials used, both switches offer quality construction and unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is evident that the Type L requires a lighter touch than the Purple Sakura. The Type L has an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option compared to the Purple Sakura, which has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The lighter weight of the Type L may appeal to those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Purple Sakura may be favored by users who seek a more pronounced and substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with lighter options offering a lighter touch and heavier options providing a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Gateron Type L linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Purple Sakura's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type L's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper sensation. Both switches offer a different experience when it comes to travel distance, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of what feels the most comfortable and effective for individual typing or gaming needs.
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 L 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
In terms of sound, both the Purple Sakura and the Type L switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. However, the Type L veers towards a more subdued sound signature compared to the Purple Sakura, which has a mild and neutral sound. It’s worth noting that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Purple Sakura is described as offering a buttery downstroke with a snappy response, striking a delicate balance of pronounced tactility. On the other hand, the Type L switch is characterized by a feathery and easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate. While the Purple Sakura provides a seamless and uniform typing sensation, the Type L aims to reduce finger fatigue with its light actuation force, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Purple Sakura excels in providing a buttery, mild, and snappy typing experience, while the Type L stands out with its feathery and easy-to-press feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches can deliver satisfying results, ensuring a pleasant and efficient typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value a buttery, snappy typing experience with a medium actuation force and a delicate sound signature, the Purple Sakura may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery, easy-to-press switch with a light bottom out force and a subdued sound profile, the Type L could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and preferences, so choose the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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