Huano Sakura vs. TTC Yunhai

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Sakura and TTC Yunhai offer distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences, particularly among linear switch enthusiasts. The Sakura is celebrated for its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making it an excellent choice for extended typing sessions where comfort is key. Its design promotes a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke experience, which can be particularly beneficial for typists who spend long hours at the keyboard. Meanwhile, the TTC Yunhai presents its own unique charm with a deep, rounded sound profile and a similarly light actuation force, delivering a gentle and effortless feel that many users find satisfying. The Yunhai is particularly appealing to those who appreciate auditory feedback without the harshness typically associated with louder switches. Both switches have their merits, appealing to users seeking ease of use and comfort during prolonged typing tasks. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Sakura Linear

TTC Yunhai Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Sakura and the TTC Yunhai, key differences emerge in their top housings while their bottom housings share similarities that enhance the overall sound profile. The Sakura utilizes polyketone (POK) for its top housing, a material known for its exceptionally low coefficient of friction (0.04), high durability, and shock resistance. In contrast, the Yunhai employs nylon, a classic switch housing material that, while softer and promoting a rounder sound, does not boast the same level of wear resistance. As a result, the tactile experience of pressing the Sakura switches is likely to be smoother due to the POK's superior performance, whereas the Yunhai provides a more acoustic depth from the softer nylon, contributing to a different character in sound.

The bottom housings of both switches, however, are made from nylon, leading to comparable auditory experiences when typing. This shared material implies that both switches will produce a deeper, fuller sound profile, as nylon effectively absorbs sound and reduces harshness. As the bottom housing significantly influences bottom-out sounds, users can expect that both the Sakura and Yunhai switches will deliver a duller sound when keys are pressed down. This shared characteristic of nylon in the bottom housings promotes a consistent experience in terms of auditory feedback, regardless of the differences present in the top housing materials.

Overall, while the Sakura's top housing of polyketone allows for a smoother key press and greater durability, the Yunhai’s nylon top housing yields a more subdued yet acoustically rich typing experience. Users will find that the bottom housings, made of nylon in both switches, create a unified sound profile, allowing for a deeper tonal quality in both cases. Ultimately, the distinct characteristics of POK and nylon in the top housings lead to different tactile sensations and sound profiles in response to key presses, while the prevalence of nylon in the bottom housings generates a cohesive auditory signature that enhances the overall experience of both switches.

Weight

The Huano Sakura linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sakura switch features an actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it on the lighter side. In contrast, the Yunhai switch requires a higher actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which places it in the medium range but still light compared to some other switches. This means that typists who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions or gaming would likely favor the Huano Sakura due to its lower force requirements, providing a more effortless and comfortable experience. Conversely, the TTC Yunhai, with its slightly heavier forces, may appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile and substantial feel when typing. Overall, if you're looking for a lighter touch, the Huano Sakura is the better choice, while the TTC Yunhai offers a bit more resistance for those who prefer it.

Travel distance

Both the Huano Sakura linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, which indicates that users will experience a similar feel when pressing down on the keys. This equal travel distance suggests that both switches will provide comparable responsiveness and actuation in typing or gaming scenarios. Consequently, individuals using either switch can expect a consistent keystroke experience, making them suitable options for those who prefer linear switches without a tactile bump.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Huano Sakura linear switch produces medium acoustics that strike a balance between being noticeable yet not intrusive, making them well-suited for long typing sessions without creating excessive distraction. The TTC Yunhai linear switch, on the other hand, features a deep, rounded sound profile that adds a unique character to each keystroke. Although both switches offer relatively soft auditory feedback, the Sakura's medium sound may appeal more to those who prefer a more subtle auditory experience, while the Yunhai would be favored by users who enjoy a richer, deeper sound.

When evaluating the feel of these switches, the Sakura offers a feather-light touch that allows for quick and comfortable typing sessions, proving to be excellent for users who prefer a gentle and effortless experience without straining their fingers. The Yunhai switch also features an incredibly light actuation force, leading to a similarly effortless feel during typing. While both switches cater to users who value light actuation, the Sakura's touch differentiated by its added cushioning may be slightly more forgiving over extended use, whereas the Yunhai's feel is characterized by its direct and smooth travel.

Overall, both the Huano Sakura and TTC Yunhai linear switches appeal to typists looking for a light, easy-to-press typing experience. The Sakura leans towards a more muted sound and adds a bit of cushion in feel, making it ideal for long sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Yunhai's deep sound profile and straightforward actuation draw in those seeking a unique auditory experience. While users can expect similar lightweight performance from both choices, their distinctive acoustic signatures and nuanced feels make them suited for different preferences and contexts.

Conclusion

To wrap up, your choice between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and style. If you tend to type for extended periods and prefer a lighter touch, the Sakura might be the better fit for you. With its 45-gram bottom-out force and medium acoustics, it provides a smooth, comfortable experience that encourages prolonged typing without causing fatigue. Conversely, if you enjoy a unique typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Yunhai could be your go-to option. With a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50 grams and an effortless feel, it offers a satisfying tactile experience that many typists appreciate. In summary, choose the Sakura for a feather-light touch and a more muted sound, perfect for long sessions, and opt for the Yunhai if you value a gentle, rounded sound along with a delightful typing experience. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, so consider what aspects resonate most with your typing habits.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Sakura Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

TTC Yunhai Linear

$7.50

$5.99 per 10

Learn more