Gateron Ink Red vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Red and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both stand out as popular linear options. The Ink Red is favored for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. Known for its smooth operation and crispy, clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds offer an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine switches are celebrated for their resonant and clacky notes, as well as the impeccable factory lube job that ensures a silky smooth keystroke. While the Ink Red is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', 'Polished', the Strawberry Wine (V2) falls under 'Clacky', 'Resonant', 'Silky', 'High-pitched' categories. Each switch has its own unique strengths and characteristics, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, creating a thin, higher-pitched, and satisfyingly clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has a POM top housing that produces a deeper, more muted sound. However, the Strawberry Wine (V2) incorporates a nylon bottom housing which offers a fuller and rounder sound compared to the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red. While both switches provide unique sound profiles, the Ink Red leans towards a sharper and pointed sound, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a more subdued and deep sound experience.
In terms of housing materials, the top and bottom housing of the Gateron Ink Red are consistent in their use of the proprietary INK blend material, resulting in a cohesive sound profile that is clacky and higher-pitched. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) mixes POM and nylon housing materials, with POM creating a unique deep sound and nylon contributing to a fuller and rounder sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches offer distinctive sound experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Ink Red providing a sharper sound and the Strawberry Wine (V2) offering a more muted and deep sound.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ in terms of their top and bottom components, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. The INK blend material of the Ink Red emphasizes a clacky and pointed sound, while the POM and nylon materials of the Strawberry Wine (V2) contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Ink Red or a more muted and round sound with the Strawberry Wine (V2), both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equal in that aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Red requires 60 grams while the Strawberry Wine (V2) only requires 50 grams. This means that the Ink Red switch is on the heavier side, providing a more substantial typing experience, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Strawberry Wine (V2) would be the ideal choice, while those who prefer a slightly heavier feel may lean towards the Ink Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Ink Red linear switch is the longer option, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is the shorter one. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Ink Red switch more satisfying with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a neutral and chirpy sound profile, making it suitable for various typing styles and environments. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound, creating a unique and immersive auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Ink Red being more versatile and the Strawberry Wine delivering a more crisp and sharp sound.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Ink Red and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are described as offering a silky smooth typing experience. The Ink Red switch provides a mild and polished feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of typing and minimizing resistance. Similarly, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch delivers a silky typing feel, ensuring a gentle and refined typing experience. While both switches focus on smoothness and minimal resistance, the Ink Red offers a bit more versatility in terms of typing experience compared to the Strawberry Wine.
Overall, the Gateron Ink Red and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red is versatile, providing a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel, making it suitable for various typing styles. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a distinct clacky and resonant sound, paired with a silky smooth feel for a more immersive typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that caters to different needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the typing style and preferences. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, smoother typing experience, and a crispy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a higher-pitched, clacky sound with a factory-lubed and silky smooth feel, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and enhances your overall typing satisfaction.
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