KTT Pine vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Pine and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer unique characteristics to suit different preferences. The KTT Pine is a linear switch that boasts a medium-heavy actuation force, providing a buttery smooth typing experience ideal for effortless typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura is a tactile switch known for its snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. The Pine is characterized as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'Low-pitched', while the Purple Sakura is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Snappy'. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing habits. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The KTT Pine and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches where clarity of sound is important, especially if RGB lighting is also a factor. However, while both switches share this top housing material, they differ when it comes to the bottom housing. The Pine utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile when the key is bottomed-out, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, dampening the sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
In terms of aesthetics and overall sound profile, both the KTT Pine and Sarokeys Purple Sakura benefit from the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a clear and resonant sound with a sharp, crisp quality. However, the differentiation in their bottom housing materials presents a notable contrast in sound experience. The Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing adds to the impact and sound when bottoming out a key, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing creates a softer, more muted sound, emphasizing a rounder sound profile. This contrast highlights how housing materials can significantly affect the overall typing experience and sound output of a switch.
While both the KTT Pine and Sarokeys Purple Sakura share a polycarbonate top housing for similar sound characteristics, the differentiation in their bottom housing materials showcases how varying materials can influence the overall sound profile of a switch. The Pine's polycarbonate bottom housing emphasizes clarity and sharpness, enhancing the bottom-out sound experience, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, dampening the overall acoustics. This demonstrates the importance of considering all housing materials when selecting a switch to achieve the desired sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Pine linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, both switches fall under the medium weight category. The Pine has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 50 grams, making the Pine the lighter of the two. However, the Pine also has a lower bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Purple Sakura's 60 grams, making the Purple Sakura the heavier of the two when it comes to bottoming out. For those who prefer lighter typing experiences for longer periods of time, the KTT Pine would be the better choice. Meanwhile, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may prefer the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. In terms of actuation force and bottom out force, both switches offer similar results, providing a medium-weight typing experience that can cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Pine switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Purple Sakura switch. The difference in travel distance could impact the overall typing experience, with the Pine switch potentially offering a deeper keystroke feel. However, both switches fall within the range of what is considered a standard travel distance, so you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and response. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and whether you prefer a slightly shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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.
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 KTT Pine linear switch is known for its deep and rich bass tones, offering a satisfying auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments and preferences. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience in terms of sound, with the Pine being more bass-heavy and the Purple Sakura having a more balanced sound signature.
In terms of feel, both the KTT Pine and Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Pine switch offers a creamy typing sensation, ensuring a seamless and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Purple Sakura switch is also buttery but includes a mild and snappy feel to enhance responsiveness during typing. Overall, both switches deliver a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with their buttery feel, catering to different preferences in typing style.
In conclusion, both the KTT Pine linear switch and Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Pine switch provides a bass-heavy sound and a creamy typing experience, the Purple Sakura switch offers a more balanced sound profile with a mild and snappy feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference in sound, feel, and typing style, but either option will deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Pine linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: Opt for the Pine linear switch if you prefer a slightly lower bottom out force and enjoy a buttery smooth typing experience with a more bassy and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, go for the Purple Sakura tactile switch if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and enjoy a buttery and snappy typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for the typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force that best suits your typing style. Choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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