Keygeek Keylin vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keylin and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two intriguing options to consider are the Keygeek Keylin and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), both of which are linear switches that cater to different preferences and typing experiences. The Keylin switch stands out for its use of new molds from Keygeek, delivering a premium typing experience characterized by rich acoustics and exceptional smoothness. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a seamless and quiet typing experience without compromising on quality. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a unique auditory experience with its clacky and resonant notes, enhanced further by an impeccable factory lube job that ensures silky smooth keystrokes. This switch's high-pitched sound profile appeals to users who enjoy a more tactile and auditory feedback with each keystroke. Both switches have their compelling advantages, with the Keylin focusing on smoothness and acoustic richness, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) emphasizes a distinctive and lively sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
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
UPE
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Keygeek Keylin and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ significantly in their choice of materials for the top housing, which plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. The Keylin employs a nylon top housing, known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer properties. This results in a typing experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound, as nylon effectively absorbs sound waves. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a Ly top housing, which introduces a brighter sound signature. The hard plastic of the Ly housing contributes to more resonant clacks, producing a distinctly sharper and more pronounced auditory feedback when typing. This fundamental difference in housing materials results in contrasting sound profiles, giving users varied acoustic experiences.
When analyzing the bottom housing, both switches share a commonality, as both the Keylin and Strawberry Wine (V2) feature nylon for this component. This uniformity leads to a similar experience regarding the bottom-out sound and feel of these switches. The nylon bottom housing possesses the same acoustic dampening characteristics that promote a deeper, fuller sound profile, producing a consistent and satisfying sensation when a key is fully pressed down. While the key types experience differing sounds from the top housing material, the shared nylon in the bottom housing ensures a harmonious effect when typing, which ultimately resonates with the user's tactile feedback.
In essence, the juxtaposition of the top housing materials between the Keylin and Strawberry Wine (V2) results in a unique combination of auditory experiences, while the nylon bottom housings unify the overall sound profile across both switches. Users can enjoy the rich and muted sounds from the Keylin's nylon top, alongside the lively clacks from the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s Ly top. Ultimately, the blend of these housing materials allows for varied yet complementary typing experiences, providing users with the potential to enjoy both the depth of sound and the crisp feedback, depending on which switch they choose to engage with at any given moment. Whether one favors the softer sounds of the Keylin or the bright resonance of the Strawberry Wine (V2), the nylon bottom guarantees a consistent tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces become quite apparent. The Keylin switch features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers slightly heavier specifications with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel while typing. Thus, while both switches provide a responsive typing experience, the Keylin is the lighter option, making it ideal for prolonged use, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) is intended for users who appreciate a more robust tactile feedback. If you're seeking similar results in actuation and bottom out feel, it would be beneficial to consider the distinct force characteristics that suit your individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch, resulting in a consistent typing experience. Since both switches exhibit the same travel distance, they will likely prompt similar actuation characteristics, making them equally responsive during use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keylin has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keylin 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 Keygeek Keylin linear switch is celebrated for its rich acoustics, providing a robust auditory experience. This indicates that it possesses a fuller sound profile, likely resonating with deeper tones that might appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is characterized by its clacky and resonant notes, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp and bright. Additionally, it offers a higher-pitched auditory profile, resulting in an immersive experience that might be more engaging for typists who prefer a lively sound. Thus, while both switches provide distinct auditory experiences—Keylin leaning towards depth and fullness, and Strawberry Wine towards brightness and sharpness—the ultimate sound will also depend on the board and keycaps used alongside them.
When considering the feel, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is recognized for delivering a premium typing experience with exceptional smoothness, which suggests a high level of comfort and a seamless keystroke transition. Meanwhile, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is noted for its silky smoothness, attributed to an impeccable factory lube job that reduces friction during key presses and releases. This effectively makes both switches very comfortable to type on, enhancing the overall typing experience by minimizing resistance and providing a satisfying feel with each keystroke. Therefore, while the specific descriptions differ, both switches promise a smooth and comfortable typing experience, one emphasizing its premium attributes and the other its meticulous lube application.
Overall, whether you’re inclined toward the rich acoustics and smooth feel of the Keygeek Keylin linear switch or the resonant, clacky sound paired with silky smoothness of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, each offers its own unique benefits. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal preference in sound and tactile experience, with both providing high-quality typing experiences but catering to different auditory tastes and preferences in feel. Both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience, ensuring that regardless of your choice, you will be met with satisfying performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences in typing feel and sound. If you favor a lighter touch and prioritize smoothness in your keystrokes, the Keylin switch is an excellent choice, offering a bottom out force of 48 grams that enhances the ease of typing. This switch is designed to provide a premium experience characterized by rich acoustics, which can make your typing feel effortless and more enjoyable. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slight increase in resistance—thanks to the 52 grams of force in the Strawberry Wine (V2)—and are looking for a switch that delivers a more engaging auditory experience with its clacky and resonant sound profile, then this option is likely to suit you better. Additionally, the impeccable factory lube paired with the silky smoothness of the Strawberry Wine switches transforms each keystroke into a delightful moment. Therefore, your choice should align with whether you lean towards a lighter, smoother typing experience with the Keylin or a slightly more tactile, acoustically vibrant feel with the Strawberry Wine (V2).
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