Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gazzew U4 both offer unique tactile experiences. The Purple Sakura is celebrated for its snappy response and buttery downstroke, providing a mild and neutral sound signature that strikes a delicate balance of tactility. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 boasts a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, accompanied by a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. While the Purple Sakura is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', and 'Neutral', the U4 is labeled as 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', and 'Sharp'. Both switches bring their own distinct qualities to the table, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gazzew U4 keyboards offer distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Purple Sakura utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound with clear resonance. In contrast, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, which produces a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing is translucent and ideal for RGB lighting effects, the U4's Gazzew blend top housing provides a unique and warm auditory experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Purple Sakura utilizes a nylon housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a rounder, duller sound. On the other hand, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Despite using different materials, both keyboards offer a similar experience of enhanced sound quality and tactile feedback due to the unique properties of their respective housing materials.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is evident that each plays a crucial role in sound production and tactile feedback. The bottom housing of a switch, such as the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Sakura or the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4, affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or Gazzew blend, has a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. By combining different housing materials for the top and bottom of switches, both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and Gazzew U4 keyboards offer a well-rounded typing experience with distinctive sound profiles.
Weight
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch at 45 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Purple Sakura requires 60 grams while the U4 needs 62 grams. Both switches fall under the medium force category, providing a balanced typing experience for users. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the U4 for its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Purple Sakura due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience one is looking to achieve.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we find that the Purple Sakura has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the U4 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, the U4 offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Purple Sakura. Gamers may find the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura more suitable for quicker response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may gravitate towards the longer travel distance of the U4. 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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gazzew U4 tactile switches, we find that the Purple Sakura offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various use cases, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced users. On the other hand, the U4 provides a muted and low-pitched sound that minimizes noise and offers a more subtle and calm typing experience. Depending on personal preference and the keyboard setup, users can choose between a neutral sound with the Purple Sakura or a quieter, low-pitched sound with the U4.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Purple Sakura is praised for its buttery and mild tactile feedback, giving users a smooth and gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground in terms of tactile intensity. Additionally, the snappy response of the Purple Sakura adds to the typing experience, making each keypress feel lively. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 stands out for its sharp tactile bump that offers high feedback intensity and a distinct keypress feel. The plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation of the U4 further enhances the typing experience, providing users with a unique and satisfying feel.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gazzew U4 tactile switches, it's evident that both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. Those seeking a neutral sound profile and a buttery, mild typing experience may prefer the Purple Sakura, while users looking for a muted sound, sharp tactile feedback, and a plush bottom-out sensation may lean towards the Gazzew U4. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gazzew U4 tactile switches, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a neutral sound profile and a buttery, mild typing experience, the Purple Sakura may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a muted, low-pitched sound with a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, the Gazzew U4 could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to choose based on your personal typing preferences and environment.
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