KTT Cream Yellow vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Cream Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Cream Yellow and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The Cream Yellow switch is praised for its distinctively clacky sound and bouncy typing feel, thanks to its shortened bottom-out distance, long-pole stem, and lengthened spring. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches stand out for their resonant and clacky notes, along with an impeccable factory lube job that ensures a silky smooth typing experience. While the Cream Yellow is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Strawberry Wine (V2) is categorized 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is evident that the Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) uses a POM top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while POM produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both materials offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences. The use of polycarbonate in the Cream Yellow allows for a clear and resonant sound, whereas the POM housing in the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides an incredibly pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Cream Yellow and the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches contributes to a more satisfying typing experience with its characteristic sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials of the KTT Cream Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer distinct characteristics that impact the sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While the Cream Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound and a nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2) uses a POM top housing for a deeper sound and a nylon bottom housing for a similar typing experience. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, showcasing how housing materials play a crucial role in the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine's 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Yellow also requires more force at 58 grams, while the Strawberry Wine only needs 50 grams. This means that the Cream Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier feel, while the Strawberry Wine offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Both switches have a similar medium actuation force, but the Cream Yellow is heavier overall, making it more suitable for those looking for a firmer key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, we can see that the Cream Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Strawberry Wine's 3.4 mm. While the difference is minimal, it may still impact the typing or gaming experience for some users. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored for quicker response times and are popular among gamers. The Cream Yellow may provide a slightly deeper keystroke feel compared to the Strawberry Wine, which could appeal to those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and which travel distance feels more comfortable for the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Cream Yellow has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cream Yellow for $2.55.
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 Cream Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are known for their clacky characteristics, providing a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. However, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers an additional layer of resonance, creating a higher-pitched and cleaner sound profile. If you prefer a more crisp and immersive auditory experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) may be the better choice.
Moving on to feel, the Cream Yellow switch is celebrated for its bouncy sensation, offering a lively and spring-like feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provides a silky smooth typing experience, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. If you enjoy a more elastic and rebounding feel, the Cream Yellow might suit your preferences, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a smoother and more fluid typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Cream Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches excel in different aspects of sound and feel. The Cream Yellow provides a unique bouncy typing feel and a distinct clacky sound, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a silky smooth typing experience with resonant and clacky notes. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference, whether you prioritize a bouncy feel or a smooth typing experience. However, both switches are sure to provide a high-quality and satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Cream Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the bottom out force and the sound and feel characteristics of each. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bouncy typing feel with a distinctively clacky sound, then the Cream Yellow switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, silky typing experience with resonant and clacky notes, then the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would better suit your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of sound and feel you enjoy when typing on a mechanical keyboard.
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