Gateron Aliaz vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, some distinct differences come to light. The Aliaz switches are tailored for quiet environments like the office, offering a silent design and a medium-heavy weight that provides a substantial feel to each keystroke. This makes them an excellent choice for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine switches are known for their resonant and clacky notes, accompanied by an impeccable factory lube job that ensures a silky smooth typing experience. While the Aliaz switch is categorized as 'Silky,' 'Muted,' and 'Polished,' the Strawberry Wine (V2) is classified as 'Clacky,' 'Resonant,' 'Silky,' and 'High-pitched.' 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound compared to polycarbonate. While the Aliaz offers a more distinct and vibrant sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a softer and more soothing typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Aliaz again utilizes polycarbonate, delivering a sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and clear. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances resonance, leading to a crisper sound when typing on these switches. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing. This contrast in bottom housing materials contributes to a unique typing experience for each switch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Aliaz and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Aliaz's polycarbonate housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2) with its POM and nylon housing provides a deeper and more muted typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel, as each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the overall user experience.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch. The Aliaz requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 75 grams to bottom out, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. The difference in weight between the two switches caters to different preferences - those who prefer a heavier feel may opt for the Aliaz, while those who prefer a lighter touch may prefer the Strawberry Wine (V2). In either case, both switches offer distinct typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, which has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The slightly longer travel distance of the Aliaz may provide a more substantial feel when typing, while the shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine may appeal to those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer different experiences due to their travel distances, so choosing between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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, the Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its muted characteristics, providing a softer and quieter typing experience perfect for office settings or shared spaces. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a more clacky and resonant sound profile, with a higher-pitched and sharp tone that can be described as crisp and immersive. Whether you prefer a quieter typing experience or enjoy the satisfying clack of your keystrokes, both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences.
In terms of feel, both the Aliaz and Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are praised for their silky smooth typing experience. The Aliaz switch provides a medium-heavy weight that offers a substantial and refined feel to each keystroke, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch boasts an impeccable factory lube job that enhances the smoothness of key travel. Both switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in a polished and sleek typing experience that elevates your overall typing comfort.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table. While the Aliaz switch excels in providing a quiet and pronounced typing feedback with a medium-heavy weight, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch stands out for its clacky and resonant sound profile and impeccable smoothness due to the factory lube job. In the end, your choice between these switches will ultimately come down to your personal preference for sound, feel, and the typing experience you desire.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a silent typing experience with a medium-heavy tactile feedback, the Aliaz switch may be the best choice for you, especially in an office setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a clacky and resonant typing sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch could be more suitable, offering a silky smooth typing feel. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics, so it comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements of your typing setup. Choose wisely based on what factors are most important to you in a keyboard switch.
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