Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Aflion Windy Shadow
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Aflion Windy Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Aflion Windy Shadow offer unique features to consider. The Purple Sakura is a tactile switch renowned for its snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of pronounced tactility without being overpowering. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow is a linear switch known for its neutral sound profile and distinctive bounce from the extended spring, providing a comfortable medium-light 55g bottom-out. Both switches offer a mild and neutral sound signature, making them suitable for those who prefer a quieter 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
N/A
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
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
19.7mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Aflion Windy Shadow are quite similar, as they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it an ideal material for the top housing of switches, especially for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, users can expect a comparable experience from both the Purple Sakura and the Windy Shadow due to their shared use of polycarbonate for the top housing.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Purple Sakura and the Windy Shadow differ in material, with the former utilizing nylon while the latter also uses polycarbonate. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing, such as the Purple Sakura, may provide a more muted typing experience compared to switches with a polycarbonate bottom housing, like the Windy Shadow.
Overall, while both the Purple Sakura and the Windy Shadow share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, they differ in the materials of their bottom housings. This distinction results in a variation in sound profiles, with the Purple Sakura offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon bottom housing, while the Windy Shadow provides a sharper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. The choice of housing material can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience, making each switch unique in its sound and feel.
Weight
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force compared to the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch, with 50 grams for the Purple Sakura and None grams for the Windy Shadow. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Purple Sakura requires 60 grams while the Windy Shadow requires 55 grams, making the Windy Shadow slightly heavier in this aspect. Both switches fall into the medium range in terms of actuation force, but the Windy Shadow is considered medium-light in terms of bottom out force. This means that users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Aflion Windy Shadow, while those who prefer a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Purple Sakura has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Windy Shadow, making it ideal for those who prefer faster response times. On the other hand, the Windy Shadow offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying and substantial keypress for those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and whether you prioritize speed or a more pronounced typing experience. Both switches offer slightly different travel distances, but in the end, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feedback and functionality.
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 Aflion Windy Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Windy Shadow for $3.91.
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 and mild sound signature, suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Aflion Windy Shadow linear switch has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them versatile for different typing preferences and purposes.
When it comes to feel, the Purple Sakura is known for its buttery and snappy response, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with a gentle and approachable feel. Similarly, the Aflion Windy Shadow provides a mild typing experience, suitable for a wide range of users seeking a more gentle and comfortable typing sensation.
Overall, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and Aflion Windy Shadow switches offer different sound profiles, they both provide a comfortable typing experience with moderate actuation force requirements. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch could be a suitable choice for newcomers looking to explore mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience and bring a level of customization and satisfaction to the user.
Conclusion
In summary, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a buttery, snappy feel, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura would be a great choice. These switches provide a moderate sound profile and a smooth typing experience that many find satisfying. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter bottom out force and a mild, neutral sound profile, the Aflion Windy Shadow would be a better fit. These switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a distinctive bounce from their extended springs. Ultimately, the decision between the Purple Sakura and the Windy Shadow will come down to your personal preference for tactility, sound, and feel.
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