Durock Light Tactile vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Light Tactile and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. The Light Tactile from Durock is praised for its gentle tactility, providing a softer and smoother typing experience compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out for its clacky and resonant nature, coupled with a silky smooth feel thanks to the impeccable factory lube job. While the Light Tactile offers a neutral and mild typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is characterized by a high-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), the most striking difference lies in their top housing materials. The Light Tactile utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. This results in a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing, known for producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. This creates a unique sound experience that is different from the Light Tactile's crisper sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, which is a classic choice known for eliciting a deep and full sound profile. However, the Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Strawberry Wine (V2) also benefits from the properties of nylon, creating a similar deep and full sound profile. This commonality in the bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with rich sound feedback.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ in their sound profiles, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing creates a consistent deep and full sound experience for both switches. Whether you prefer the crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of POM, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that the Light Tactile has a heavier touch compared to the Strawberry Wine. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches can impact typing experience, with the Light Tactile offering a more substantial typing feel and the Strawberry Wine providing a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches, the Light Tactile has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Strawberry Wine's 3.4 mm. The Light Tactile's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, while the Strawberry Wine's shorter 3.4 mm travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on their travel distance, with the Light Tactile offering a more substantial key press and the Strawberry Wine providing a shallower feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for typing style and desired key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provides a unique combination of clacky and resonant notes, giving each keystroke a sharp and crisp sound. Both switches will offer a different auditory experience, with the Light Tactile providing a more neutral sound, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a more distinct and percussive sound.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch delivers a mild and polished typing experience, making it gentle and smooth for most users. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a silky typing experience that enhances the overall smoothness and minimizes resistance when typing. Both switches provide a different tactile feel, with the Light Tactile offering a mild and polished feel, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a silky smooth typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Light Tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Light Tactile provides a neutral sound and a mild, polished typing experience, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth feel. Depending on individual preferences, users can choose between these switches for their preferred typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you enjoy a gentle tactility with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, the Light Tactile may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a silky smooth typing experience, resonant and clacky sound, and a lower bottom out force, the Strawberry Wine (V2) could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and sound preferences.
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