HMX Lucky vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, both the HMX Lucky and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches stand out for their unique characteristics and experiences. The HMX Lucky switch, known for its softer, glittery nylon housing, delivers a neutral and satisfying typing experience that appeals to those seeking a lightweight touch without compromising on comfort. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a delightful auditory experience, characterized by resonant and clacky notes, paired with an impeccable factory lube job that ensures each keystroke feels incredibly silky smooth. While the Lucky switch may be ideal for users looking for an understated yet pleasant typing sensation, the Strawberry Wine (V2) caters to those who appreciate both sound and a premium feel in their keystrokes. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lucky and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), a notable distinction lies in the top housing. The Lucky utilizes a nylon top, a classic material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a Ly top housing that is characterized by a bright sound signature, generating resonant clacks when typing. This fundamental difference indicates that the Lucky may offer a more mellow and supportive typing experience, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is likely to provide a sharper and more pronounced sound, catering to users who prefer a more distinctive auditory feedback.
Examining the bottom housing reveals a similarity between the two switches, as both the Lucky and Strawberry Wine (V2) incorporate a nylon material. This commonality means that regardless of the differences in the top housings, the bottom housing's characteristics will still contribute a deeper and fuller sound profile. As noted, nylon’s softer nature helps in sound absorption, leading to a consistent bottom-out feel across both switches. Therefore, when typing on these switches, users can expect a similarly satisfying experience in terms of how the key bottoms out, ensuring a level of comfort and familiarity.
The interplay of the distinct top housing materials with the shared nylon bottom housing ultimately demonstrates the complexity of sound production in mechanical switches. For both switches, the nylon bottom contributes to the duller and rounder sound when pressing down, while the differing top materials shape the sound characteristics when releasing the key. This means that switching between the two can yield varied auditory experiences due to their differing top housing materials, yet the grounded familiarity of nylon in the bottom housing harmonizes the overall performance. Ultimately, the choice between the Lucky and Strawberry Wine (V2) hinges on whether a user prefers a fuller bottom sound or a more crisp, pronounced typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, particularly beneficial for long typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, which provides a more substantial typing feel. This makes the Strawberry Wine (V2) better suited for users who enjoy a stronger push, as it can enhance the tactile feedback during typing. Overall, the Lucky switch is the lighter option, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) leans towards a medium-light feel, catering to different preferences in typing experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, the HMX Lucky stands out with a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) measures a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This difference in travel distance may influence your typing or gaming experience; the Lucky switch offers a more substantial depth that some users may find more satisfying and tactile, akin to traditional switches. On the other hand, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Strawberry Wine (V2) might appeal to gamers seeking faster response times for their keystrokes. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with a deeper feel, the HMX Lucky is the better choice, whereas if you lean towards quicker actuation, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) may serve you well.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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 HMX Lucky linear switch is not explicitly described in the provided information, leaving its auditory characteristics relatively ambiguous. However, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch stands out with its distinctly resonant and clacky sound profile. When typing on these switches, users can expect a sharper, more percussive sound, characterized by crisp and bright notes. The higher-pitched aspect of the Strawberry Wine (V2) adds a layer of auditory clarity that can be quite appealing, especially for those who prioritize an engaging acoustic experience while typing.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Lucky linear switches present an unspecific but generally satisfying experience that is implied to be neutral and enjoyable due to their lightweight design and softer nylon housing. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches boast an unequivocally silky feel, attributed to their impeccable factory lube job. This meticulous attention to lubrication minimizes resistance, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience with each keystroke, which may make it more favorable for those who value seamless action during typing.
Overall, while the sound profile of the Lucky switches remains a mystery, the distinct clack and resonance of the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a unique auditory charm. In terms of feel, the Lucky offers a neutral satisfaction, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) excels with unparalleled smoothness. Depending on personal preferences, one might gravitate towards the Strawberry Wine’s engaging sound and silky feel, but should the Lucky switches deliver comparably satisfying performance in their unidentified aspects, they could still be a highly viable alternative for new users navigating the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider what aspects of the typing experience are most important to you. If you prefer a lighter switch that requires less force and delivers a neutral yet satisfying feel, the Lucky switch with its 43-gram bottom out force will likely suit your needs. Its softer nylon housings provide a pleasant typing experience for extended use, making it ideal for those who prioritize comfort and ease. On the other hand, if you enjoy a bit more resistance with a medium-light feel and appreciate a prominent auditory element in your typing, the Strawberry Wine (V2) with its 52-gram actuation force is your best bet. Known for its clacky and resonant sound, complemented by a silky smooth keystroke, it creates an engaging atmosphere that's perfect for both gaming and typists who want a more energetic experience. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you desire a lightweight, comfortable switch or one that combines sound and texture for a vibrant typing experience.
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