Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° stand out as notable choices with distinct characteristics. The Purple Sakura is a tactile switch celebrated for its snappy response and buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance between pronounced tactility and a mild, neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron is a linear switch that revolutionizes silent typing with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unmatched smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While the Purple Sakura focuses on a tactile typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes silent operation and smooth keystrokes. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Purple Sakura and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This makes them ideal for switches that are intended to be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for a visually pleasing aesthetic when paired with lighting effects. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches results in a resonant sound that is distinct and clear, providing a satisfying typing experience for users.
In contrast, the Purple Sakura and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Purple Sakura utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a rounded and duller sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Despite this difference in bottom housing material, both switches offer a tactile typing experience that is enhanced by the specific qualities of their housing materials.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Purple Sakura and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° demonstrate how housing materials can significantly impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While the top housings contribute to the sound when letting go of a key, the bottom housings have a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel. By carefully selecting these materials, both switches are able to provide a unique typing experience that caters to the preferences of users looking for specific sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force of the Purple Sakura is 50 grams, while the actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° is 45 grams. This means that the Zero Degree 0° requires a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Purple Sakura. Additionally, the Purple Sakura has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating that it requires a bit more pressure to fully press down the key compared to the Zero Degree 0°, whose bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Purple Sakura is slightly heavier than the Zero Degree 0°, making it a better option for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. However, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Zero Degree 0° being a lighter option for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0°. A shorter travel distance might appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits, but the decision on which to choose will come down to individual typing needs and preferences.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 experience that strikes a balance between actuation force and sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch boasts a silent typing experience thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, which work together to absorb sound and reduce noise. Both switches may provide a pleasant typing experience based on their sound qualities, although the Zero Degree 0° is specifically engineered for silent operation.
In terms of feel, the Purple Sakura is praised for its buttery downstroke that provides a smooth and fluid typing sensation, along with a mild and snappy tactility that enhances responsiveness. These qualities create a typing experience that is effortless and enjoyable, appealing to a wide range of users. Unfortunately, the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare it to the Purple Sakura in this regard. However, based on the innovative design features of the Zero Degree 0° switch, it may also offer a unique typing experience that prioritizes smoothness and stability.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Purple Sakura provides a balanced and pleasant typing experience with its neutral sound profile and buttery feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch is designed for silent operation and smooth typing performance. Both switches have their own strengths and may appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each user is looking for. Ultimately, both switches have unique features that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, a delicate balance of tactility, and a neutral sound profile, the Purple Sakura may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with an unknown bottom out force, innovative self-padding design for silent typing, unparalleled smoothness, and stability with reduced noise, then the Zero Degree 0° could be the better option for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for a satisfying and enjoyable keyboard experience.
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