Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Raw and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw switches stand out with their blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon materials, providing a creamy yet lightweight feel that is slightly textured straight out of the box. These switches are ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches and prefer a mild and subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer a clacky and resonant typing sound with a factory-lubed smoothness that makes each keystroke feel silky. With a high-pitched tone, these switches are perfect for those who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both feature unique housing materials that significantly impact the overall typing experience. The Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, which offers a balance of durability and flexibility. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) opts for a POM top housing, known for creating a deep and muted sound profile. While the Keygeek Raw's blend provides a sturdy feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a more subdued typing experience with its POM material.
In terms of bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw uses a UMPE & Si blend that complements its top housing for a cohesive typing feel. This exclusive blend provides a unique touch to the switch, enhancing both sound and tactile feedback. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) features a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller but rounder sound that appeals to many users.
While the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) each have distinct top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing impact the overall sound profile and feel of the switch when typing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Keygeek Raw has an actuation force of None grams, meaning that it does not require any force to trigger a keystroke, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a light touch is needed for activation. In terms of bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw has a heavier bottom out force of 57.5 grams compared to the lighter bottom out force of 50 grams for the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). Those who prefer a lightweight typing experience may opt for the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) due to its lighter actuation force, while those seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Keygeek Raw with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users can expect consistent typing experiences regardless of the switch they choose to use. These switches provide a standard travel distance and offer similar results in terms of keypress feel and feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Raw linear switch provides a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a clacky and resonant sound that is sharp, bright, and higher-pitched, providing a unique auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and other factors such as keycaps and keyboard build, users can choose between the more versatile sound of the Keygeek Raw or the distinctive clacky and resonant sound of the Strawberry Wine (V2).
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Raw switch offers a textured and mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone for most users. The slightly scratchy feel out of the box can be customized with hand-lubing for a smoother typing experience. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provides a silky smooth feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall typing experience with its exceptionally smooth operation. Depending on individual preferences for typing feel, users can choose between the more textured and milder Keygeek Raw switch or the silky smooth feel of the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch.
Overall, both the Keygeek Raw and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Keygeek Raw switch provides a neutral sound and slightly textured feel that can be customized with hand-lubing, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth typing experience out of the box. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the versatility of the Keygeek Raw switch or the distinctive qualities of the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, you should consider several factors. If you prefer a slightly textured feel and a medium bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw switch may be the right choice for you. This switch is best for those who enjoy a creamy yet lightweight typing experience and are interested in hand-lubing their switches. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and silky typing experience with a lighter bottom out force, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch may be more suitable for you. This switch is known for its resonant and clacky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of feel, sound, and typing experience.