Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stand out as popular choices. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro is a tactile switch, offering a satisfying tactile bump and a higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is a linear switch known for its clacky and resonant notes, with a silky smooth feel thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. Each switch has its unique qualities that cater 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ significantly in terms of sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a higher-pitched sound. The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), on the other hand, utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the polycarbonate top housing is known for its translucency and compatibility with RGB lighting, the POM top housing offers a unique sound experience that may appeal to a different set of users.
In terms of bottom housings, both switches feature nylon materials, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer nature that absorbs more sound. The nylon bottom housing in both the V3 Lavender Purple Pro and Strawberry Wine (V2) contributes to a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. Despite the similarity in bottom housing material, the overall sound profile may still vary depending on the combination of top and bottom housing materials used in each switch.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it's important to note that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the V3 Lavender Purple Pro or the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), both switches offer unique typing experiences tailored to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly heavier bottom out force at 55 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine's 50 grams. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent light amount of force needed to trigger a keystroke. The V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a medium-light typing experience, making it a good option for those looking for a balance between ease of typing and a bit of resistance. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a lighter typing experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile 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. This means that the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2). The V3 Lavender Purple Pro provides a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which can be preferred by those who like a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a good choice for those looking for a quicker response time, which can be advantageous for gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch is characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, offering a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is described as producing a clacky and resonant sound, with a factory lube job ensuring a smooth and silky keystroke. Depending on personal preference, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro may appeal to those who enjoy a higher-pitched sound, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) may cater to individuals seeking a clacky and resonant typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium tactile feedback with a lively and responsive feel, along with a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Whether you prefer a bouncy and tactile feel or a silky smooth typing experience, both switch options offer unique qualities to enhance your typing comfort and enjoyment.
Overall, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch each bring their own distinct qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a bouncy and accented typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump and medium-light bottom out force, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a silky smooth typing feel with a light bottom out force and a resonant and clacky sound profile, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches would be a better choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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