Dareu Master vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Master and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). The Dareu Master boasts its all-POM linear switch, offering users a medium weight experience with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness during operation. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with resonant and clacky notes, paired with an impeccable factory lube job for silky smooth keystrokes. Both switches are categorized as 'Clacky', but the Master is also labeled as 'Mild' and 'Polished', while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is described as 'Resonant', 'Silky', and 'High-pitched'. Each switch has its unique features and qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both feature POM top housings which create a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper and relatively muted profile. This means that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on both keyboards. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Master utilizes a POM material as well, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) opts for a nylon bottom housing. The nylon material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may lead to a slightly varied typing experience between the two keyboards.
Despite the similarities in their POM top housings, the Dareu Master and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. While the Master sticks to POM for its bottom housing, the Strawberry Wine (V2) goes with nylon. This discrepancy in material can impact the typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to the POM bottom housing. Additionally, the characteristics of the bottom housing play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, giving users a tactile response that may differ between the two keyboards.
In terms of how the housing materials affect the overall sound and feel of the switches, the Master and the Strawberry Wine (V2) offer slightly contrasting experiences. The POM top housings on both keyboards produce a pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted, providing a consistent auditory experience. However, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in the Strawberry Wine (V2) results in a fuller and deeper sound when typing, while the POM bottom housing in the Master may offer a slightly different tactile response. Ultimately, while both keyboards may offer a similar typing experience in terms of their top housing materials, the variation in bottom housing materials can lead to subtle differences in sound and feel for users to consider.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Dareu Master switch has an unknown bottom out force, whereas the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it the heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Master would be the preferred choice due to the absence of a specified bottom out force. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a slightly higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with weight playing a significant role in determining the typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar key press experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Users can expect to feel the same key travel distance whether they are using the Dareu Master or the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch. Both switches offer a consistent and familiar typing experience with no significant difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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, both the Dareu Master and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are described as "clacky," producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This indicates that users of either switch can expect a similar auditory experience with a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. However, the Strawberry Wine (V2) also offers a "resonant" and "high-pitched" sound profile, which can provide a more immersive and higher-pitched auditory experience compared to the Master switch.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Master switch is described as "mild" and "polished," offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as "silky," providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. While both switches aim to deliver a smooth typing feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) may offer an even more luxurious and frictionless typing experience compared to the Master switch.
In conclusion, while both the Dareu Master and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches share similar "clacky" sound characteristics, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch may provide a more immersive and high-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a "silky" typing feel that enhances overall smoothness and minimizes resistance, potentially providing a more luxurious typing experience compared to the "mild" and "polished" feel of the Dareu Master switch. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, but rest assured that both options aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium weight switch with no specified bottom out force, the Master could be the right choice for you. It offers a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy switches with a resonant and clacky sound profile, the Strawberry Wine (V2) might be more suitable. Additionally, if you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its impeccable factory lube job. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force. Choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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