Outemu Crystal vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). The Outemu Crystal, a linear switch, is renowned for its unique typing experience with a fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight. Typing on these switches provides a neutral sound profile, categorized as 'Chirpy', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a different experience with resonant and clacky notes that create a silky smooth typing experience due to an impeccable factory lube job. This switch 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Crystal's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile. This gives the switch a more crisp and tactile feel, perfect for those who prefer a more responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) with its POM top housing provides a deeper, more muted sound profile. This creates a softer and smoother typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a quieter and more subdued feel when typing.
While both switches have a unique sound profile, the type of plastic used in their housings greatly influences the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate material of the Crystal offers a stiffer and more rigid feel, resulting in a sharper sound and crisper tactile feedback. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a softer and more absorbent surface, giving the switch a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in material composition highlights how housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences for sound and feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Outemu Crystal and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer quality typing experiences that can be customized to suit individual preferences. While the Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, creating a consistent and sharp sound profile, the Strawberry Wine (V2) combines POM and nylon to provide a unique blend of deep and muted tones. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more rigid and crisp typing experience with the Crystal or a softer and fuller feel with the Strawberry Wine (V2), showcasing how varying housing materials can cater to a wide range of typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Crystal requires a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine's 50 grams, making the Crystal the heavier of the two. Both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users can expect a similar initial resistance when typing on either switch. The lighter bottom out force of the Strawberry Wine may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience for extended periods of time, while the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Crystal may suit individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that the Crystal has a longer travel distance at 4 mm compared to the Strawberry Wine's 3.4mm. The difference of 0.6 mm may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience. The Crystal switch provides a deeper key press, which some may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine switch offers a slightly shallower press, which may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a different typing experience, but choosing the one with the desired travel distance will result in a more comfortable and satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Crystal linear switch features a chirpy and high-pitched profile, giving off a unique and distinct auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a more clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound that adds a level of satisfaction to each keystroke. Depending on personal preference, users may favor the chirpy sound of the Crystal or the clacky and resonant notes of the Strawberry Wine (V2).
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience by offering different levels of smoothness and refinement to cater to user preferences.
Overall, both the Outemu Crystal and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal offers a chirpy sound profile and a polished feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Users can expect similar results in terms of performance, with the choice between the two switches ultimately coming down to personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force, resonant and clacky sound profile, and impeccable factory lube job for a silky smooth typing experience, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in sound and feel.
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