Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, a tactile switch, and the HMX Xinhai, a linear switch. The Purple Sakura is celebrated for its tactile feedback, offering a snappy response and a smooth downstroke that strikes a delicate balance between being pronounced yet not overpowering. In contrast, the Xinhai is known for its linear feel, featuring a softer acoustics profile and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. The Purple Sakura is best suited for those seeking a buttery, mild, and neutral typing experience, while the Xinhai appeals to individuals looking for a bouncy, clacky, and creamy switch. 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
37g
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
3.40 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 and the HMX Xinhai both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows light to shine through the housing. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housings, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits when typing on either keyboard.
However, a point of difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Purple Sakura features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Xinhai's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties, resulting in a more muffled and round sound when typing on switches that use this material for the bottom housing. This contrast in bottom housing material between the two switches offers users the opportunity to experience varying sound profiles and tactile feedback depending on their preference.
In terms of typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material will impact the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing the key. This signifies the importance of both the top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall typing experience on a keyboard. While both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the HMX Xinhai offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials, users can expect a difference in sound and feel due to their respective choices of nylon and polycarbonate for the bottom housing.
Weight
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the HMX Xinhai linear switch. The Purple Sakura requires 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Xinhai only needs 37 grams to actuate and 45 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter choice. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Purple Sakura may be the better option, while those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Xinhai. Both switches offer different typing experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Xinhai has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Purple Sakura. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for a more responsive typing or gaming experience. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to some users, but for those who prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Xinhai may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between a shorter travel distance for faster response times and a slightly deeper key press for those who prefer a bit more feedback.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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 it comes to sound, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai has a clacky sound signature, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when typing. The choice between these two switches will greatly depend on personal preference, as the Purple Sakura provides a more subdued sound, while the Xinhai offers a more pronounced and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the Purple Sakura provides a buttery and mild typing experience, with a snappy response that adds liveliness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai offers a bouncy and creamy typing sensation, with a spring-like feedback and smooth keystrokes. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the choice between them will depend on whether you prefer a softer, more fluid feel (Xinhai) or a slightly crisper, more tactile feel (Purple Sakura).
Overall, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the HMX Xinhai switches each have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Purple Sakura excels in providing a neutral sound profile and buttery, mild key feel, while the Xinhai stands out for its clacky sound signature and bouncy, creamy typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a moderate and more fluid typing experience, the Xinhai would be the better choice, while if you prefer a slightly crisper and more tactile feel, the Purple Sakura would be the way to go.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a balanced and smooth typing experience, opt for the Purple Sakura. The 60-gram bottom out force, along with its buttery and snappy feel, make it a great choice for those looking for a satisfying typing experience without excessive noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a distinctively crisp and bouncy feel, the Xinhai may be more suitable for you. With a 45-gram bottom out force and a creamy and clacky sound profile, the Xinhai offers a unique typing experience that caters to those who enjoy a more responsive and lively feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.
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