Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Yellow Silver, a linear switch, we find two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Purple Sakura offers a tactile experience with a snappy response and a buttery downstroke, striking a balance between pronounced tactility and a mild sound signature. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver by Outemu boasts a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, perfect for those who prioritize speediness and responsiveness while gaming or typing. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you best decide on the most suitable switch for your keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Outemu Yellow Silver, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting due to its translucency. Thus, in terms of sound and aesthetics, both the Purple Sakura and the Yellow Silver offer similar qualities and outcomes with their polycarbonate top housings.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Purple Sakura features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Yellow Silver also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, showcasing the same qualities in terms of sound production and tactile feedback. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches results in a similar typing experience with a deeper sound profile.
Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of mechanical switches like the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Outemu Yellow Silver. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the use of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. The Purple Sakura and the Yellow Silver offer distinct typing experiences, with the former providing a sharper sound with a polycarbonate top housing and a fuller sound with a nylon bottom housing, while the latter offers a similar typing experience with its material choice.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Sakura is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, compared to the Yellow Silver with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of force, but the Purple Sakura requires slightly more force to actuate and bottom out. The lighter actuation force of the Yellow Silver may be preferred by those looking for a lighter typing experience, while the heavier Purple Sakura may appeal to those who seek a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference in travel distance between the two switches can impact the typing experience for users. The shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Yellow Silver may appeal to those seeking a more traditional and deep key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience desired.
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 Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch in terms of sound, both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level, suitable for various users and purposes. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Purple Sakura is distinguished by its buttery downstroke, giving a smooth and fluid typing experience. It is also described as providing a mild and snappy tactile feedback, making it responsive and enjoyable for typing. In contrast, information on the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is currently not available.
Overall, both the Purple Sakura and Yellow Silver switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them versatile choices for different users and settings. The Purple Sakura stands out for its buttery and snappy feel, providing a satisfying typing experience. While less information is available on the feel of the Yellow Silver switch, its light actuation force and neutral sound profile suggest it may appeal to gamers and typists seeking speed and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for tactile feedback and sound level.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, you should consider your preference for tactility and actuation force. If you prefer a tactile switch with a snappy response and a medium bottom out force, the Purple Sakura would be a great choice, especially if you enjoy a buttery and mild typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be more suitable, particularly for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and how you prioritize tactility and actuation force in your mechanical keyboard.
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