Everglide Sakura Pink vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Everglide Sakura Pink and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Everglide Sakura Pink and the Durock T1. The Sakura Pink is a linear switch, known for its feather-light 35g actuation force, making it ideal for delicate typists. It offers a gliding type feel and frictionless operation, resulting in a smooth and effortless typing experience. Additionally, it produces a delightful poppy sound, reminiscent of popping bubble wrap, adding a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions. On the other hand, the Durock T1 is a tactile switch that offers a comfortable typing experience. It features a medium bump when pressing down and has a sound that resembles the soothing sound of rain falling on a window. While these general descriptions provide a good starting point, let's dive deeper into the specific characteristics of each switch to help you make an informed decision that suits your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Sakura Pink and the Durock T1 switches, namely polycarbonate and nylon, bring unique characteristics to the overall sound profile and typing experience. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of these switches. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of sound and visual features when using either the Sakura Pink or the T1 switch's top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Sakura Pink employs polycarbonate for its bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of the top housing. This means that the switch will maintain its sharp, clear, and resonant sound profile throughout the typing experience. In contrast, the T1 switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers a distinct typing experience. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a slightly duller and rounder sound when typing on the T1 switch compared to the Sakura Pink.
When it comes to the physical sensation of pressing down and releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a more significant role. Therefore, pressing down on the Sakura Pink switch will provide a stiffer and crisper bottom-out feel, thanks to its polycarbonate bottom housing. Conversely, the T1 switch's nylon bottom housing will offer a slightly softer and more cushioned bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the top housing material primarily influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the sound profile when letting go of a key will be sharper and more pronounced with the polycarbonate top housing found in both switches.
In summary, while the Everglide Sakura Pink and the Durock T1 switches share similar characteristics in terms of their polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housings differ, with the Sakura Pink utilizing polycarbonate and the T1 utilizing nylon. This results in slightly different sound profiles and typing experiences. However, the overall effect may still be comparable, as the top housings have a stronger influence on the sound when releasing a key, while the bottom housings impact the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for either a sharper and crisper sound (Sakura Pink) or a deeper and fuller sound (T1).
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Sakura Pink has a relatively light actuation force of 35 grams, meaning it requires a gentle touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the T1 is unavailable, making it difficult to determine if it is lighter or heavier than the Sakura Pink.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Sakura Pink requires 45 grams of force to fully press down, providing a somewhat substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. This means that typing on the T1 switch will have a noticeably heavier feel compared to the Sakura Pink.
Considering the mentioned weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may find the Sakura Pink more suitable. It provides a comfortable and effortless typing feel, making it ideal for those who spend long hours working or gaming. However, individuals who seek a more substantial push and a tactile typing experience might lean towards the T1 switch with its heavier bottom out force.
In terms of overall weight, the Sakura Pink is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force when compared to the T1. However, without the specific information regarding the T1's actuation force, it becomes challenging to make a direct comparison. Nonetheless, if the actuation forces of both switches were similar, the typing experience of the Sakura Pink and T1 may yield similar results. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key, you will feel the same distance of movement for both switches. Regardless of whether you choose the Sakura Pink or the T1, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
The Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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
The Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is best known for its super light actuation force of 35g, making it perfect for delicate typists. When it comes to sound, the Sakura Pink produces a delightfully poppy sound that is reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, adding a playful touch to your typing sessions. In terms of feel, the Sakura Pink switch offers a buttery and frictionless typing experience. It provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation, with easy-to-press keys that require minimal force to activate. Overall, the Sakura Pink switch provides a smooth and effortless typing experience with a playful sound.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is best known for its super comfortable typing experience. It features a medium bump when pressing down, providing a tactile feedback that is reminiscent of rain falling on the window. In terms of sound, the T1 switch is described as low-pitched, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. As for feel, the T1 switch is described as stepped, offering a mild tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. It is also accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The T1 switch has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the information provided, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Sakura Pink is a smooth and effortless linear switch with a poppy sound, perfect for delicate typists. On the other hand, the T1 is a tactile switch with a medium bump and a mellow sound, providing a comfortable typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and the choice between them would depend on personal preference. However, if you are looking for a similar light and smooth typing experience with a buttery feel, the Sakura Pink switch would be a good choice. Similarly, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a low-pitched sound and a polished finish, the T1 switch would provide similar results.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you prioritize a lightweight and effortless typing experience, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches are perfect for delicate typists who prefer a light actuation force. The Sakura Pinks provide a smooth and frictionless operation, giving you a gliding type feel as you type. The switches produce a delightful poppy sound, adding a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions. In terms of sound, the Sakura Pink has a muted profile, meaning they produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular mechanical switches. As for the feel, the Sakura Pink switches offer a seamless and easy-to-press typing experience, with a buttery and frictionless sensation.
On the other hand, if you prioritized a comfortable typing experience with a medium-heavy bump and a sound resembling rain falling on the window, the Durock T1 tactile switch would be a better fit for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, the T1 provides a medium-heavy actuation force, offering a comfortable and satisfying typing feel. The switch has a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. When it comes to the feel, the T1 switches have a stepped and accented tactile feedback, meaning they provide a mild bump and a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. The switches also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, your choice between the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch depends on your preferences. If you prefer a lighter and effortless typing experience with a playful sound, go for the Sakura Pink. However, if you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a medium-heavy bump and a sound reminiscent of rain, the T1 is the way to go. Consider your typing style and preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard.
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