Keygeek Briny vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Keygeek Briny stands out with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, delivering a balanced sound profile that provides a satisfying and consistent typing experience. This switch appeals to users seeking a more muted yet reliable keystroke without compromising performance. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) boasts an enticing blend of clacky and resonant notes, complemented by an impeccable factory lube job that ensures a silky smooth keystroke with each press; this makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy more auditory feedback and a lively typing experience. While both switches excel in their own right, the decision ultimately depends on your personal preferences—whether you favor the balanced steadiness of the Briny or the engaging resonance of the Strawberry Wine (V2). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), a notable distinction lies in the top housing. The Briny features a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This characteristic allows nylon to absorb sound better than harder plastics, resulting in a dampened and rounded auditory experience when typing. Conversely, the top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) is constructed from Ly, a newer material that presents a bright sound signature. With its resonant clacks, the Ly top housing offers a more pronounced audio feedback during typing, emphasizing clarity and sharpness in each keystroke. This divergence in materials suggests that while the Briny may excel in a more muted, rich sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is geared towards providing brighter acoustics.
Both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, which bridges a gap in their overall sound experience. The nylon provides similar acoustic characteristics for the bottom of both switches, yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it dampens sound effectively. This shared feature means that regardless of the differing top housing materials, the bottom housing maintains a consistent auditory foundation that enhances both the Keygeek Briny and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). When pressed, users are likely to notice a similar bottom-out sound and feel attributed to this material, promoting a sense of familiarity during typing across both switch styles.
In summary, although the Keygeek Briny and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize different materials for their top housings—nylon versus Ly—the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing creates a common auditory trait that unifies their performance. The distinctive qualities brought by each top housing significantly influence the typing experience; the Briny’s softer sound versus the Strawberry Wine’s brightness. The interplay of these materials suggests that while they cater to different preferences in sound signatures, their combined housing designs reflect each switch’s unique character while still maintaining a coherent auditory performance at their cores. Thus, users may find that, despite the contrasts in their top housings, both options ultimately deliver satisfying results due to the uniformity of the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch present notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that cater to varying user preferences. The Briny's actuation force is measured at 50 grams, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. This indicates that users who prefer less resistance when typing or gaming may find the Strawberry Wine (V2) more comfortable for extended sessions. When it comes to bottom out forces, the Briny again leans towards the heavier side at 60 grams, compared to the lighter 52 grams of the Strawberry Wine (V2). Consequently, those who appreciate a more substantial feel while typing might favor the Keygeek Briny switch for its stronger resistance. Overall, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is the lighter option, making it more suitable for users seeking a less taxing typing experience, while the Briny offers a heavier touch for those who enjoy a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch are both identical, measuring 3.6 mm each. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel and response when pressing down on the keys of either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, individuals looking for a consistent typing experience will likely find that switching between these two options yields similar results in terms of key engagement and feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Briny has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Briny for $3.29.
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 Keygeek Briny linear switch boasts a balanced sound profile characteristic of its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing. This suggests a more neutral, even tone, ideal for users who prefer a less pronounced auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches showcase resonant and clacky notes, delivering a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is both crisp and bright. The higher-pitched sound profile of the Strawberry Wine (V2) adds an immersive auditory quality to the experience, making it distinctively different from the more subdued character of the Briny switches.
When it comes to the feel, the Briny switch does not have any distinctive descriptions provided, leaving much to the imagination regarding its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are praised for their silky smoothness. This quality minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, creating an exceptionally fluid typing experience. Users of the Strawberry Wine (V2) can expect a refined tactile response that enhances the overall enjoyment of typing sessions.
Considering the available information, the Keygeek Briny and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Briny offers a balanced sound suitable for quieter environments, the Strawberry Wine (V2) appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback and a uniquely smooth typing feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize sound characteristics or tactile smoothness, and both switches will cater to their respective strengths in these areas.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences regarding actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams that provides a balanced sound profile, the Briny may be your best option. This switch is ideal if you enjoy a more subdued auditory experience while typing, allowing for a versatile usage scenario whether for gaming or typing tasks. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter switch, the Strawberry Wine (V2) with its 52-gram bottom out force will likely suit you better, especially if you appreciate a more engaging, clacky sound that adds character to your typing experience. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a smooth keystroke combined with an immersive auditory experience. In essence, consider how you prefer your keyboard setup to feel and sound: go for the Briny if you like a balanced, medium touch with a potent sound, or opt for the Strawberry Wine (V2) for a lighter, smoother, and more resonant typing experience.
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