Huano Elf vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Huano Elf and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Elf and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) emerge as notable contenders, each offering unique characteristics for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The Huano Elf switches are celebrated for their POK top housing, which enhances acoustics and delivers a deep sound signature paired with a medium-light feel, making them an appealing choice for those who appreciate a satisfying and engaging typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer a more resonant and clacky sound profile, showcasing an impeccable factory lube job that ensures each keystroke is silky smooth, ideal for users who prioritize both auditory feedback and tactile pleasure. While both switches fall under the linear category, catering to those who prefer a more uninterrupted keypress, they present distinct experiences that cater to individual 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Elf and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), we see notable differences in the top housing, while both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. The Huano Elf's top housing is made from POK (polyketone), which is celebrated for its excellent smoothness due to its low coefficient of friction at 0.04, only slightly surpassing LY's 0.03. POK material also boasts superior durability, with wear resistance 14 times greater than POM and significantly enhanced shock resistance compared to both Nylon and POM. This choice of material not only supports smooth actuation but also contributes to a louder, clackier sound profile, making typing on the Huano Elf an engaging experience.
In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features LY as its top housing material. While LY has its advantages—including a bright sound signature that leads to resonant clacks—its profile is notably different from that of POK. The emphasis on resonance in LY can produce more prominent highs while permitting deeper sound characteristics from the bottom housing. This differentiation is crucial for users who prioritize sound quality and the tactile experience, as the materials impact the overall feedback when typing. While both switches offer unique auditory experiences, they do so through different paths related to their top housing choices.
However, both switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon’s characteristics inherently provide a fuller sound profile, attributed to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively compared to harder plastics. This leads to a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out, creating an overall rich typing experience for both designs. Hence, while the top housing materials set distinct boundaries on the sound and feel during key release, the nylon bottom housing serves as a grounding element, ensuring that both the Huano Elf and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) deliver resonance and warmth in their lower tones, albeit through differing dynamics in their overall acoustic character.
Weight
In comparing the Huano Elf linear switch with an actuation force of 42 grams and an unspecified bottom out force to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), which features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, we see notable differences in both actuation and overall weight. The Elf is the lighter option, requiring less force to actuate, making it suitable for users who favor prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2), with a heavier actuation force, provides a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. The bottom out force specifically for the Elf is unknown, while the Strawberry Wine's bottom out force is categorized as medium-light, indicating a firmer feel when fully pressed. Therefore, although both switches serve their purposes for different preferences, the Huano Elf is more suited for casual typists seeking comfort, whereas the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) appeals to those who appreciate a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the Huano Elf linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch are both measured at 3.6 mm, making them equivalent in terms of key travel. This similarity means that users pressing down on keys equipped with either switch will experience the same distance from the top to the bottom, providing a consistent tactile feel. As a result, when using either switch, typists and gamers alike can expect identical feedback and performance, making them both comparable options for those seeking linear switch characteristics.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Elf has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Elf 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 Huano Elf linear switch is known for its deep sound signature, likely produced by the POK top housing which enhances acoustics and contributes to a well-rounded audio experience. This switch is designed to provide a satisfying auditory feedback without being overly harsh. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a distinctly different sound profile with resonant and clacky notes. It produces a sharp and snappy sound that is both crisp and bright, creating an engaging typing experience that many users enjoy. If sound is a crucial factor for you, the Elf leans towards a richer tone while the Strawberry Wine (V2) gives you a brighter, more lively response.
When it comes to feel, the Elf provides a medium-light tactile response, which many users find to be comfortable and enjoyable for extended typing sessions. Its design aims to offer a reliable and pleasant typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is specifically notable for its silky smoothness due to an impeccable factory lube job, which minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This creates a seamless sensation when you type, enhancing overall comfort levels. If you prefer an exceptionally smooth keypress, the Strawberry Wine (V2) would be the way to go, whereas the Elf offers a more traditional typing feel.
In conclusion, when choosing between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), you'll find that they cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. The Elf delivers a satisfying deep tone and a medium-light touch, perfect for those who might enjoy a more encompassed auditory experience. Conversely, the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its bright, clacky acoustics and silky smooth feel, making it ideal for users who appreciate both auditory and tactile crispness. Depending on your priorities—whether they be sound depth or touch smoothness—either switch can provide a rewarding typing experience tailored to your personal style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Huano Elf linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, you'll want to consider the specific characteristics and experiences each switch offers. If you prefer a switch that provides a unique auditory experience with deep, rich sound profiles and a medium-light feel, the Huano Elf switch would be your best choice. This switch, featuring a POK top housing, focuses heavily on creating satisfying acoustics, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more subdued and immersive sound while typing. On the other hand, if you're drawn to the idea of a precise, snappy keystroke with a crisp and clean sound, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) would serve you well. Renowned for its clackiness and resonance, this switch not only offers a more percussive sound but also features an impeccable silky smooth feel due to careful factory lubrication, ideal for individuals seeking an enjoyable and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should align with either the deep acoustics of the Elf for a richer sound or the bright, lively characteristics of the Strawberry Wine for a more stimulating typing adventure.
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