TTC Gold Pink vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stand out as exceptional choices. The Gold Pink, a linear switch with a 37g actuation force, is favored for its light and effortless typing experience, making it ideal for fast typists or avid gamers who value speed. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) also a linear switch, boasts resonant and clacky notes that provide a satisfying level of feedback during typing sessions. Additionally, the impeccable factory lube job on the Strawberry Wine switches ensures a smooth and silky keystroke experience. While the Gold Pink is described as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', 'Polished', the Strawberry Wine (V2) is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Resonant', 'Silky', '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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is evident that they both feature unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Gold Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the materials differ in their sound properties, they both offer distinct advantages in terms of sound quality.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Gold Pink and the Strawberry Wine (V2) make use of nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound experience when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. Despite having different top housing materials, the switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, providing a consistent sound profile across both variants.
In considering the overall impact of different housing materials on the sound and feel of switches, it is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings are distinct and contribute uniquely to the typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While the Gold Pink and Strawberry Wine (V2) may differ in their top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of this classic switch housing material. Ultimately, the choice between polycarbonate and POM top housings will depend on personal preference for sound characteristics.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Pink requires 45 grams, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) needs 50 grams to bottom out. Both switches are considered light in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Pink provides a slightly lighter typing experience, making it a good option for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a bit more resistance, providing a firmer feel during typing for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance than the Strawberry Wine, making it the longer option. The Gold Pink's 4.0mm travel distance offers a more traditional feel, while the Strawberry Wine's 3.4mm travel distance is shallower and may provide a faster response time preferred by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance – whether you prefer the quicker response of the shorter distance or the more substantial feeling of the longer distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 TTC Gold Pink linear switch is best described as clacky, producing a sharp and percussive sound, adding a lively quality to typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a more resonant and high-pitched sound profile, delivering a clean and sharp auditory experience. Both switches provide unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Gold Pink switch is renowned for its buttery and mild typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke that is gentle on the fingers. Additionally, the light actuation force of the Gold Pink switch makes it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provides a silky and smooth typing experience, thanks to an impeccable factory lube job that enhances the overall feel of the switch. Both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with subtle differences in their characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Pink and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing or gaming experience. While the Gold Pink switch provides a light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a more resonant and smooth typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience that meets your needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and a unique typing experience that is sure to impress newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the specific qualities and characteristics that best suit your typing preferences. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience with a satisfying level of feedback, the Gold Pink switch with its 37g actuation force and clacky sound may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and silky typing experience with resonant and clacky notes, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch with impeccable factory lubing might be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your individual typing style and preferences.
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