Gateron Mars vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mars and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) present two excellent linear options, each with its own distinct characteristics. The Gateron Mars switches are celebrated for their innovative design, featuring a unique POK stem and a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, which contributes to their smooth keystrokes and reliable performance. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches stand out with their resonant, clacky sound profile and impeccably smooth feel, thanks in part to a high-quality factory lube application that enhances the overall typing experience. While both switches cater to enthusiasts seeking linear action and durability, the Mars emphasizes a smooth, steady keystroke, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a unique auditory feedback that many typists find appealing. Ultimately, the choice between these two may come down to personal preference regarding feel and sound; 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Gateron Mars and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is evident that the differences in their housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles while also holding some similarities. The Mars features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer, more absorbent properties. This results in a sound that's notably muted and warm, making every keystroke feel more rounded and pleasant. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a Ly top housing, which, while newer, offers a much brighter sound signature. This material produces crisp, resonant clacks that can enhance the typing experience through sharper auditory feedback. Thus, the top housing of each switch greatly influences the acoustic characteristics, setting them apart in terms of sound profile.
Turning to the bottom housing of these switches, the contrast continues. The Mars incorporates a POM bottom housing, celebrated for its unique sound quality, which aligns closely with the overall muted tone of the switch. POM is known for providing a pleasing, deeper sound, allowing the user to enjoy a comfortably dampened typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is constructed with a nylon bottom housing that mirrors the qualities of its own top housing—delivering a deep, full sound while absorbing excess noise. This synchronization between the top and bottom housings of the Strawberry Wine (V2) results in a cohesive sound profile, while the differing materials of the Mars create an interesting dichotomy, blending a fuller bottom-out feel with a softer auditory feedback upon release.
While the switches do differ in both their top and bottom materials, one can still achieve somewhat similar results by considering the characteristics imparted by each housing type. In the case of the Gateron Mars, the nylon top housing and POM bottom combine to offer a unique softness that is very inviting, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), with its bright top and muted bottom nylon, presents a more defined auditory experience. When typing, users may experience variations in depth and resonance from each switch, yet both can provide satisfying feedback and pleasing acoustics, depending on personal preference. Ultimately, while there are notable differences in building materials, the overall design of both switches yields enjoyable and distinct typing experiences with their own unique sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, both have an identical actuation force of 45 grams, which means users will experience similar responsiveness when pressing either switch to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out forces differ significantly; the Mars switch does not specify a bottom out force, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a bottom out force of 52 grams. As a result, the Gateron Mars is likely to feel lighter overall since it lacks a defined bottom out force, making it potentially more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming marathons where less resistance is preferred. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) presents a heavier feel at bottoming out, catering to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. The absence of a bottom-out force specification for the Mars switch aligns its overall feel as lighter compared to the heavier Strawberry Wine switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mars linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch both feature a travel distance of 3.6 mm, resulting in an identical experience when pressing down on the keys. This means that users of either switch can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation characteristics, as the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. Consequently, both switches would provide comparable performance in typing and gaming scenarios, making them equally suitable for individuals seeking consistent key response in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 Gateron Mars switch’s auditory characteristics are not specified, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch, which is known for its resonant and clacky qualities. The Strawberry Wine switches provide a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Their high-pitched sound profile contributes to an immersive auditory experience, making them more suitable for those who prefer a lively and pronounced keystroke response. Without information on the Mars, it's unclear whether it offers a similarly vibrant or subdued auditory experience.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Gateron Mars again lacks specific descriptions, leaving a gap in the comparative analysis. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are renowned for their silky smooth operation, attributed to an impeccable factory lube job that enhances the overall typing experience. The silky nature of these switches minimizes resistance during key presses and releases, allowing for fluid typing. This smooth feel is often sought after by users who prioritize comfort and reduced finger fatigue over tactility or resistance. Without details on the Mars feel, one cannot ascertain if it delivers comparable satisfaction.
In summary, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches stand out for their clacky, resonant sound and silky smooth feel, the Gateron Mars switches remain an enigma without specific details available for direct comparison. If the Mars switch shares similar qualities in sound or feel as the Strawberry Wine, users may find that both provide satisfactory performance, albeit potentially in different auditory or tactile dimensions. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the specific typing experience you desire. If you prefer a medium-light actuation force and enjoy a clacky and resonant sound profile that brings an engaging auditory element to your typing, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is an excellent choice. Its silky smooth feel, thanks to a well-executed factory lube job, makes it appealing for long typing sessions and gaming, where you want both feedback and comfort. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a more unique design with advantages in terms of materials, such as a POK stem housed in a blend of Nylon and POM, then the Gateron Mars may suit your preferences better. While the Mars's sound profile isn't explicitly detailed, its innovative construction implies a different tactile experience, potentially appealing to those who enjoy variety in their keyboard setups. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize auditory feedback and tactile refinement with the Strawberry Wine or seek a distinctive mechanical feel with the Gateron Mars.
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