KTT Lightning vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Lightning and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they have distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Lightning is renowned for its speed, making it an ideal choice for gamers looking for quick and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a smoother typing experience with impeccable factory lubrication, perfect for those who prioritize comfort and seamless typing. Both switches have a clacky sound profile, but the Lightning leans towards a higher-pitched sound while the Strawberry Wine (V2) emphasizes a more resonant tone. 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
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials offer unique sound profiles, with polycarbonate providing a higher-pitched sound and POM offering a deeper tone. However, the choice between these materials ultimately comes down to personal preference based on the desired sound experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Lightning and Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The similarities in bottom housing material suggest that both switches will likely provide a similar tactile typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with slight variations in tone and resonance.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the KTT Lightning and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), the overall typing experience will be a combination of the qualities of both materials. The bottom housing will play a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key. This split between top and bottom housing materials provides a unique typing experience for each switch, catering to a variety of preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Lightning has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2) with 45 grams. This means that the Lightning switch will require a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke, which may be preferred by users who type for longer periods of time or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provides a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a relatively light actuation force and bottom out force, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum in terms of travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Lightning switch due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Strawberry Wine switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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, both the KTT Lightning and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. However, the Lightning switches also have high-pitched and chirpy qualities, while the Strawberry Wine switches introduce a resonant element, adding a higher-pitched and immersive auditory dimension to each keystroke. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a crisper sound (Lightning) versus a cleaner, sharper sound (Strawberry Wine).
Moving on to feel, the KTT Lightning switches are characterized by a subtle resistance that still maintains a light typing feel, making them suitable for shared spaces. Additionally, these switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer a silky typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. If you prefer a switch with a gentle resistance and polished finish, the Lightning may be the better option, while those looking for an exceptionally smooth typing experience would appreciate the Strawberry Wine switches.
In conclusion, both the KTT Lightning and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches have their own unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Lightning switches are known for their clacky sound profile and subtle, polished feel, the Strawberry Wine switches introduce a resonant sound quality and silky smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether you prefer a crisper or cleaner sound profile, as well as your preference for resistance and smoothness in typing. Rest assured, regardless of your choice, you can expect quality performance and reliable keystrokes from either of these mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the type of usage you prefer. If you are looking for speed and precision in your keystrokes, the Lightning switch would be a great choice. The slick type feel and clacky sound profile make it ideal for competitive gaming or fast typing. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother typing experience with resonant and clacky notes, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch with its impeccable factory lube job would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize speed and precision or a smoother, more refined typing experience.
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