Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and Gazzew U4Tx are both exceptional choices, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The Purple Sakura stands out for its tactile feedback that strikes a delightful balance between being pronounced yet not overpowering. With a buttery downstroke and mild, neutral sound signature, typing on the Purple Sakura provides a satisfying and smooth experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx combines the best of both worlds, offering a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" on bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out. The sharp tactile bump of the U4Tx switches ensures a luxurious typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different users' 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
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gazzew U4Tx differ in terms of the materials used. The Purple Sakura features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the U4Tx utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both materials offer distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura produces a more resonant and clear sound, while the Gazzew blend in the U4Tx creates a deeper and fuller sound.
In regards to the bottom housing materials, the Purple Sakura incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Conversely, the U4Tx features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, similar to its top housing counterpart, providing a rich and deep sound profile. Both switches benefit from the softness of their respective bottom housing materials, creating a more rounded and dull sound compared to switches using harder plastics. Overall, the differences in the bottom housing materials of the Purple Sakura and U4Tx contribute to the overall typing experience by influencing the sound produced when pressing down on keys.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gazzew U4Tx, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Purple Sakura emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4Tx focuses on richness and depth. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Purple Sakura enhances the sound with a deeper and fuller tone, while the proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing of the U4Tx provides a rich and deep sound profile. In conclusion, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing, offering users a custom experience based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
Comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, the actuation force of the Purple Sakura is 50 grams, while the U4Tx has an unknown actuation force. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Purple Sakura at 60 grams and the U4Tx at 62.5 grams. In terms of weight, the Purple Sakura is slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. The actuation force of the U4Tx is unknown, so it is difficult to determine which switch is lighter in terms of actuation force. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Purple Sakura for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the U4Tx for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it is clear that the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the U4Tx has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those who prioritize quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users, with the Purple Sakura offering a slightly more abrupt keypress compared to the U4Tx. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
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 U4Tx 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
In terms of sound, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a neutral sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes, making it a versatile choice for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx switch provides a bassy and muted sound that offers a deeper and richer tone during key presses while minimizing noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The sound produced by these switches will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Purple Sakura switch is known for its buttery downstroke, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. The tactile bump is described as mild and snappy, striking a delicate balance between responsiveness and gentleness. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx switch offers a sharp tactile bump that is intense and distinct with each key press, providing a high feedback intensity for a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and Gazzew U4Tx switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a neutral sound profile with a buttery downstroke and a snappy tactile bump, the Purple Sakura may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bassy and muted sound with a sharp tactile bump that provides intense feedback, the Gazzew U4Tx switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a tactile switch with a mild and neutral sound signature that provides a buttery and snappy typing experience, then the Purple Sakura may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a switch with a bassy and muted sound profile that offers a sharp tactile bump with each keypress, then the Gazzew U4Tx may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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