TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, offering a seamless typing experience with a neutral sound signature that is suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out for its clacky and resonant notes, coupled with a silky smooth feel thanks to its factory lube job. While the Gold Red Pro is described as polished, thocky, and low-pitched, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is known for being clacky, resonant, and high-pitched. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specific qualities will help you make the best decision for your keyboard preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gold Red Pro and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), one key difference lies in the top housing material. The Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the Gold Red Pro offering a clearer and resonant sound, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) delivers a more subdued and unique sound.
Another point of comparison is the bottom housing material used in both switches. Both the Gold Red Pro and the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when pressing down on the switches. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder tone adds a level of consistency in sound profile between these two switches.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Gold Red Pro and the Strawberry Wine (V2) results in distinct sound profiles for each switch. While the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper sound, its nylon bottom housing enhances the overall depth of the sound profile. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a unique sound experience with its POM top housing creating a deeper tone, complemented by the nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2) which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red Pro does not provide information, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it slightly heavier. This means that for those who prefer a lighter typing experience and less strain on their fingers, the Gold Red Pro may be the better option. Conversely, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push when typing, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) would be the preferred choice. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. Shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while longer travel distances can provide a more substantial and satisfying keystroke feel. If you are looking for a switch with a shorter travel distance for increased responsiveness, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth to the keystroke, the TTC Gold Red Pro would be the way to go. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific feel you are looking for in a keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro switch offers a neutral and low-pitched experience, with a satisfying thocky sound when pressed. This makes it a versatile option suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provides a more unique auditory experience with its clacky and resonant profile, delivering a sharp and bright sound that may be preferred by individuals seeking a more distinctive typing sound. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the balanced sound of the Gold Red Pro or the sharper tones of the Strawberry Wine (V2).
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gold Red Pro is known for its polished and mild typing experience, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction thanks to its factory lube job. This results in a sleek and gentle typing feel that caters to a wide range of users. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch emphasizes its silky smoothness, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance for effortless keystrokes. If users value a smooth and refined typing feel, both the Gold Red Pro and Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are excellent options to consider.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Red Pro and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics, both switches excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. Individuals seeking a versatile switch with a balanced sound and mild feel may gravitate towards the Gold Red Pro, whereas those looking for a more unique auditory and silky smooth typing experience may prefer the Strawberry Wine (V2). Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user desires.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a versatile switch with a neutral sound profile and seamless typing experience, the Gold Red Pro may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy switches with a clacky and resonant sound, coupled with a silky smooth typing feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) could be the perfect fit for your setup. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference in sound and feel.
Mentioned in this article
