Durock Blue Lotus vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Blue Lotus and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Blue Lotus switch from Durock is praised for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it ideal for those who prefer a noticeable tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out for its resonant and clacky notes, coupled with a factory lube job that ensures smooth keystrokes. While the Blue Lotus switch features a vibrant, glowy RGB illumination with its detachable light column, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a more traditional typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their own distinctive qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. 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
65g
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
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 long spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
Both the Durock Blue Lotus and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The use of nylon in both switches helps to enhance the typing experience by providing a more satisfying sound when pressing down on the keys.
In terms of top housings, the Durock Blue Lotus utilizes a modified PC & UPE blend, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) opts for a POM material. The modified PC & UPE blend used in the Blue Lotus switch gives it a unique and premium feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, POM housings in the Strawberry Wine (V2) create a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches are designed to provide a high-quality sound and feel during use.
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is evident that they offer similar benefits in terms of sound quality. Both switches utilize nylon bottom housings to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, while their top housing materials enhance the overall typing experience with unique and premium qualities. Although the specific materials may differ between the two switches, users can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of sound and feel when typing on either the Blue Lotus or the Strawberry Wine (V2).
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, we see that the Blue Lotus is heavier with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Blue Lotus provides a medium-heavy typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more substantial push feel, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a lighter touch, perfect for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. Both switches offer unique benefits based on personal preferences, with the Blue Lotus catering to those who enjoy a stronger push feel, and the Strawberry Wine (V2) being preferred by those who prioritize lighter actuation forces for extended typing periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, the Blue Lotus has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the 3.4 mm of the Strawberry Wine. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by many users for faster response times, especially in gaming. The Blue Lotus may provide a slightly more substantial keypress feel due to its longer travel distance, while the Strawberry Wine may feel slightly more responsive due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for the level of keypress depth and responsiveness desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue 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 Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Blue Lotus switches provide a bassy tone that offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. This can provide a satisfying auditory experience for those who enjoy a more substantial sound when typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are known for their clacky and resonant notes, creating a sharp, snappy sound that is clean and sharp. The high-pitched sound profile of the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches can offer a crisp and bright typing experience. However, both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing ambiance, making them both great options depending on individual preferences and setup.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switches are lauded for their accented and snappy tactile feel. The medium amount of tactility provided by these switches strikes a balance between being noticeable and not overwhelming. The responsiveness of the Blue Lotus switches is attributed to their snappy nature, creating an energizing typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smoothness can make typing on the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches feel effortless and enjoyable.
Overall, the Durock Blue Lotus and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Lotus switches offer a bassy sound and snappy tactile feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches provide a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfying results. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one is looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a marked tactile feel with swift responsiveness, the Blue Lotus switches may be the best choice for you. These switches offer a snappy typing experience with a visually appealing detachable light column for RGB illumination. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and desire a silky smooth typing experience with resonant and clacky notes, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches would be more suitable for you. These switches feature an impeccable factory lube job and provide a clean and sharp sound profile while typing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile intensity and responsiveness (Blue Lotus) or smoothness and resonant sound (Strawberry Wine).
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