Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream offer unique characteristics and options for users to consider. The Purple Sakura is a tactile switch that boasts a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, with a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced but not overpowering. With a mild and neutral sound signature, this switch is perfect for those seeking a satisfying typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is a linear switch that features an innovative use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, providing typists with a smooth and creamy feel reminiscent of its dessert namesake. Additionally, these switches offer a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets them apart from the competition. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The Purple Sakura and the Vanilla Ice Cream both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Purple Sakura utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which enhances its sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream's proprietary KTT blend top housing offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both have distinct characteristics, they both provide a unique sound experience that caters to different preferences.
In terms of bottom housing, the Purple Sakura features a nylon material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a POK material for its bottom housing, which is known for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. The POK material contributes to the switch's smooth and clacky feel, making it a popular choice for switch enthusiasts. Despite the differences in materials, both bottom housings offer unique qualities that enhance the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining its sound signature and feel. While the Purple Sakura and the Vanilla Ice Cream have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, each material brings its own unique qualities to the switch. Whether it's the stiff and clear sound of polycarbonate in the Purple Sakura or the smooth and durable POK material in the Vanilla Ice Cream, both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience, making it essential to consider when choosing a keyboard.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, it is evident that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is lighter in both aspects. The Purple Sakura requires a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a lower actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch would provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Purple Sakura switch. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Purple Sakura would be the better choice, as it offers a higher force requirement. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions may find the Vanilla Ice Cream switch more suitable. In both cases, choosing a switch based on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force is crucial for a comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, there is a difference of 0.3 mm between the two. The Purple Sakura has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Vanilla Ice Cream may provide a more satisfying depth to the keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience desired. Overall, the difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in slightly different tactile experiences, but both options offer their own unique benefits.
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 KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
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 tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a high-pitched and clacky sound that sets it apart from other switches in the market. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the clean and sharp sound of the Purple Sakura or the sharp and crisp sound of the Vanilla Ice Cream.
When it comes to feel, both the Purple Sakura and the Vanilla Ice Cream switches are described as offering a buttery typing experience. The Purple Sakura also features a snappy response, providing a more lively typing sensation. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is known for its smooth and creamy feel, reminiscent of the dessert it is named after. Users who enjoy a more responsive typing experience may lean towards the Purple Sakura, while those who prefer a silky and effortless feel may opt for the Vanilla Ice Cream.
In conclusion, both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Purple Sakura provides a neutral sound profile and a snappy response, the Vanilla Ice Cream delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound with a smooth and creamy typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a different typing experience that caters to a variety of users. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying and unique typing experience with either switch choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preferences for tactile feedback and bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a balanced tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Purple Sakura may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, creamy feel with a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing style, sound preferences, and desired typing experience. Consider trying out both switches to see which one suits your needs best.
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