Bsun Akashi vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Akashi and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) are two standout linear options worth exploring. The Akashi stands out for its unique design, featuring a UPE stem for smoothness and a hybrid housing of POM top and nylon bottom, resulting in a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) boasts resonant and clacky notes and comes with an impressive factory lube job for a silky smooth keystroke experience. Both switches offer qualities such as clackiness, silkiness, and resonance, making them popular choices for keyboard enthusiasts. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Akashi and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both feature POM top housings that create a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side with relatively muted tones. This similarity in housing material results in a consistent sound experience for users of both switches. However, the differences in their nylon bottom housings provide a distinction in sound profiles. The Akashi's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) with its nylon bottom housing also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile but with its own unique characteristics that set it apart from the Akashi.
In terms of sound characteristics, both the Bsun Akashi and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer a similar experience with their POM top housings. The deeper and more muted sound profiles create a pleasant typing experience for users looking for a quieter switch option. However, where they differ is in their nylon bottom housings. While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the Akashi's softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). This variation in bottom housing material can lead to a subtle difference in typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the Bsun Akashi and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) may come down to personal preference in sound profile. Both switches offer a unique typing experience with their POM top housings, creating a deeper and more muted sound. The differences in their nylon bottom housings, however, provide distinct characteristics that users may prefer based on their sound preferences. Whether you enjoy a duller and rounder sound profile from the Akashi or a slightly different sound experience from the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with their combination of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that both switches offer a relatively light typing experience. The Akashi has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Akashi is slightly lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2). For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Akashi may be the better choice. However, for users who prefer a bit more resistance and a more pronounced keystroke feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth and responsive typing experience, and choosing between them would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The Bsun Akashi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the Akashi offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel when pressing down on the key compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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, both the Bsun Akashi and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are described as clacky, producing sharp and snappy noises when pressed. This characteristic gives a satisfying auditory feedback that is both crisp and bright. Additionally, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is noted for its resonant and high-pitched sound profile, elevating the typing experience with clean and sharp tones. While the Akashi offers a unique sound with its hybrid housing design, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides an exceptional factory lube job for a silky smooth typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Akashi is renowned for its creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky typing experience. These qualities make each keystroke smooth and effortless, almost like gliding across the keys with minimal resistance. The switches are also described as snappy and easy-to-press, offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is highlighted for its silky smooth tactile feedback, enhancing the overall typing feel with reduced resistance during key presses.
In conclusion, while both the Bsun Akashi and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches share similarities in sound by being clacky, they provide slightly different tactile experiences. The Akashi offers a unique and resonant sound with its UPE stem and hybrid housing design, coupled with a creamy and effortless typing feel. Meanwhile, the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out for its exceptional factory lube job, providing a silky smooth typing experience with high-pitched and resonant sound profiles. Ultimately, both switches cater to individuals seeking a tactile and auditory experience that enhances their overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a bright and crisp sound with a resonant and clacky note, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique sound contrast with a bright, crisp bottom-out and a deep acoustic richness, the Bsun Akashi could be the ideal option. Additionally, if you prioritize a smooth and silky typing experience, both switches offer a silky feel, but the Bsun Akashi also provides creaminess, frictionlessness, and polished sensations. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing experience.
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