KTT Laurel vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer unique experiences to users. The Laurel is a medium-light linear switch that boasts a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, providing a responsive and comfortable typing experience. With a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch is ideal for those looking for a snappy and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are known for their resonant and clacky notes, accompanied by an impeccable factory lube job that makes each keystroke silky smooth. These switches have a high-pitched sound profile and are perfect for users who prefer a more tactile and audible typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both feature POM top housings, which create a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. This similarity in housing material suggests that both keyboards will likely produce a similar auditory experience, with nuanced differences in sound quality. However, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound.
While the POM top housing of the Laurel and the Strawberry Wine (V2) deliver a comparable sound experience, the difference in bottom housing materials sets the keyboards apart in terms of sound profile. The Laurel's POM bottom housing maintains the overall deep and muted sound characteristic of the POM material, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s nylon bottom housing contributes to a more rounded and duller sound quality. This distinction in bottom housing materials may appeal to individuals seeking a specific sound profile, with the nylon bottom housing offering a unique tactile experience.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Laurel and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. Both keyboards feature POM top housings that create a pleasing and unique sound, but the differing bottom housing materials provide variations in the depth and fullness of the sound produced. Whether one prefers the deeper, muted sound of POM or the rounder, duller sound of nylon, the selection of housing materials will significantly influence the overall typing experience on these keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, both switches have a relatively light actuation force and bottom out force. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a smooth and light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. The slight difference in actuation force between the two switches may not be significantly noticeable in practical use. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience due to their relatively low actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch both offer relatively short travel distances compared to traditional switches. The Laurel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. While the difference between the two may seem minimal, it can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers who value fast response times may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine (V2), while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Laurel. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, with the choice ultimately coming down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch offers a low-pitched profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is described as resonant and clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound with a clean and sharp profile. Depending on personal preference, the Laurel switch may be favored for its more subtle and soothing sound, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more vibrant and percussive typing experience.
In terms of feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch provides a snappy typing experience, known for its super responsiveness due to its longer or dual-staged springs. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a silky smooth typing feel, thanks to an impeccable factory lube job that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. While the Laurel switch may be preferred for its lively and responsive feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch excels in providing a luxurious and smooth typing sensation.
Overall, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing experience, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a resonant and clacky sound with a silky smooth feel. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual taste and typing style. However, regardless of choice, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience and provide a high-quality performance.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch with a subtly low-pitched sound profile and a balance of responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with resonant and clacky notes, impeccable factory lube job for a silky smooth typing experience, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be the better option for you. Consider your preference for sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision between these two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches.
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