Durock Black Lotus vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches known for their smooth actuation and pleasant typing experience. The Black Lotus stands out for its silky smooth feel and precision, with reduced housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers resonant and clacky notes, paired with an impeccable factory lube job for a silky smooth keystroke experience. The Black Lotus features a 55g actuation weight, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is known for its high-pitched sound. Both switches have their unique characteristics with the Black Lotus categorized as 'silky, buttery, mild, polished' and the Strawberry Wine (V2) as 'clacky, resonant, silky, high-pitched'. Overall, when deciding between the two, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon housing. Therefore, both switches are likely to offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to the shared nylon bottom housing material.
However, when it comes to the top housing, there is a significant difference between the two switches. The Black Lotus features a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, which is praised for its unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a POM top housing that creates an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile. The POM material is noted for producing a deeper and more muted sound compared to other housing materials. This contrast in top housing materials may result in a distinct tactile and auditory experience for each switch.
Overall, while both switches share the benefits of a nylon bottom housing in terms of sound profile, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of feel and sound characteristics. The Black Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend top housing may provide a more premium and unique typing experience, while the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for typing feel and sound, users may choose between these switches based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. The Black Lotus also has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, perfect for those who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Black Lotus offers a more traditional travel distance while the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a shallower travel distance. Gamers may prefer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for its faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more hefty feel may opt for the Black Lotus with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch offers a silent typing experience with a focus on precision. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provides a unique clacky and resonant sound profile, creating a more pronounced auditory experience. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a quieter or more distinct typing sound. Additionally, it's essential to consider other factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps when assessing the overall sound of the switches.
When it comes to feel, both the Durock Black Lotus and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are described as providing a silky smooth typing experience. The Black Lotus switch is known for its silky, buttery, mild, and polished feel, focusing on minimizing resistance and enhancing typing comfort. Similarly, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch emphasizes a silky typing feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless keystroke. Users looking for a smooth and refined typing experience would find both of these switches satisfying in terms of feel.
Considering the available information, both the Durock Black Lotus and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer a premium typing experience with their focus on smoothness and precision. While the Black Lotus switch leans towards a more silent and precise typing sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provides a unique clacky and resonant sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing sound and feel. Overall, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either of these switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Black Lotus and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches, consider the specific qualities that each switch offers. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a substantial actuation weight with a unique light column design, the Black Lotus may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and impeccable factory lubrication for a silky smooth typing experience with resonant and clacky notes, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel and sound profile.
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