Huano Sakura vs. Durock Sea Glass
An in-depth look at the Huano Sakura and the Durock Sea Glass switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preferences regarding feel, sound, and performance during extended typing sessions. The Huano Sakura switch is celebrated for its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making it a fantastic option for those who prioritize comfort and minimal finger fatigue during long hours of use. On the other hand, the Durock Sea Glass switch offers a captivating blend of aesthetics with its vibrant pastel colors and a unique typing experience characterized by a distinct dryness and airiness, which many users find refreshing. Despite the Sea Glass switch's 62g bottom-out force, it defies expectation by delivering a weightless and frictionless typing experience, accompanied by a uniquely hollow sound signature. While both switches are linear and cater to users looking for smooth keystrokes, each offers its own distinctive advantages—whether you seek the effortless typing of the Sakura or the innovative feel of the Sea Glass. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
P3+
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Sakura and Durock Sea Glass switches present both unique characteristics and notable similarities, particularly in their sound profiles. The Sakura utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, which is celebrated for its exceptionally low coefficient of friction and remarkable durability. With a wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM and increased shock resistance compared to both Nylon and POM, the POK material enhances the switch's overall performance, resulting in a smooth and clacky typing experience. In contrast, the Sea Glass employs a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing. While this blend offers a sound profile described as pleasant and somewhat brighter, it comparatively lacks the same level of durability found in the POK material. Nevertheless, both materials aim for smooth operation, implying that users could achieve satisfying keystrokes, albeit with different tonal qualities.
When evaluating the bottom housing, both switches utilize variations of nylon, which plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches. The Sakura features a classic nylon bottom housing that absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, fuller auditory experience. Its softer composition contributes significantly to the rounder and duller sound that many typists find appealing. Similarly, the Durock Sea Glass employs a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing, promising a sound profile that remains pleasant, albeit with a slightly brighter character. This shared reliance on nylon indicates that both switch types can produce a degree of sound dampening, albeit with the Khano Sakura leaning towards a richer depth, while the Sea Glass offers a more pronounced high-end.
In summary, while the Huano Sakura and Durock Sea Glass switches incorporate different materials for their top and bottom housings, they both serve the goal of delivering a quality typing experience. The interaction between the distinctive top housing materials contributes to the sound when releasing a key, while the nylon-based bottom housings shape the bottom-out feel and sound. Therefore, while there are noticeable differences in durability and specific sound profiles, users can expect qualitatively similar results in terms of fluid operation and typing satisfaction, guided by the inherent properties of the selected materials. Well-crafted combinations of these unique components in each switch create pathways to diverse yet enjoyable experiences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a softer touch for long typing sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the Sea Glass has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a more substantial tactile experience that some users may prefer for its feedback and resistance. This distinction means that the Sakura is better suited for those who favor lighter switches, while the Sea Glass caters to individuals who appreciate a stronger push feel. Ultimately, if users opt for the Sakura, they can expect a lighter typing experience, whereas the Sea Glass will offer a more robust feel as they bottom out.
Travel distance
The Huano Sakura linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Durock Sea Glass linear switch has a slightly greater travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm makes the Sakura the shorter option, appealing to those who seek quicker response times suitable for gaming. On the other hand, the Sea Glass’s longer travel distance may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing keys, as it provides a bit more depth. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness and speed, the Huano Sakura would likely be the better choice, whereas the Durock Sea Glass may cater to users who appreciate a more pronounced key travel experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 sound characteristics of the Huano Sakura switch and the Durock Sea Glass switch reveal distinct differences. The Sakura switch is known for its medium acoustics, providing a balanced auditory experience that is neither too loud nor too muted. This makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, as it offers a comfortable sound level that won’t be overwhelming. In contrast, the Sea Glass switch is described as having a uniquely hollow sound signature, which can create a more airy and less resonant sound profile during use. While both sound experiences can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, the Sea Glass switch may impart a more distinctive tonal quality due to its proprietary material blend.
When it comes to feel, both switches provide a remarkably pleasant typing experience but in slightly differing ways. The Sakura switch is noted for its feather-light touch, making it exceptionally easy on the fingers during prolonged use. This lightness contributes to a sense of comfort, particularly for users engaged in extensive typing or gaming. Conversely, the Sea Glass switch offers a frictionless typing experience, which minimizes any resistance when pressing the keys, enhancing fluidity with each keystroke. It strikes a balance with its mild characteristics, making it gentle enough for most users while still providing a feathery, easy-to-press experience that helps to reduce finger fatigue.
In conclusion, both the Huano Sakura and Durock Sea Glass switches provide excellent qualities tailored for comfortable and prolonged use, though they do cater to slightly different preferences. The Sakura's medium acoustics and feather-light touch make it suitable for those who appreciate a balanced sound and light feel. On the other hand, the Sea Glass stands out with its unique hollow sound and frictionless operation, coupling a weighty feel with a distinct auditory experience. Whether one prefers the approachable comfort of the Sakura or the distinct characteristics of the Sea Glass ultimately depends on personal preference, but either switch will ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Durock Sea Glass linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics. If you prioritize a lighter actuation and a serene typing experience for extended sessions, the Sakura switch, with its feather-light touch, is an excellent choice. Its moderate acoustics contribute to a subtler, more subdued sound profile that can enhance your focus and productivity, making it ideal for long periods of work or study. On the other hand, if you lean towards a slightly heavier key feel while still enjoying a smooth typing experience, the Sea Glass switch may be more suitable. With its medium bottom-out force, these switches offer a unique wispiness and airiness that can make typing feel both light and responsive. The distinct hollow sound signature of the Sea Glass also adds a charming character to your keyboard, making it a visually appealing and enjoyable option if aesthetics matter to you. Ultimately, consider what resonates more with your typing style and environment, ensuring that whichever switch you choose enhances your overall experience.
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