Durock Medium Tactile vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). The Durock Medium Tactile is praised for its balanced tactility and unique jelly-like sound signature, making it a top choice for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out for its resonant and clacky notes, along with a factory lube job that ensures smooth keystrokes. While the Medium Tactile offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a smoother and more consistent typing experience. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it's evident that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to the properties of nylon. However, the Medium Tactile's polycarbonate top housing will create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing will produce a more muted and deeper sound. This contrast in sound profiles can cater to different preferences for typing experiences.
The difference in top housing materials between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) also extends to their aesthetic appeal. The Medium Tactile's polycarbonate top housing, with its translucency, is ideal for RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing may not offer the same visual effect but contributes to a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and more muted. Therefore, users who prioritize visual aesthetics may prefer the Medium Tactile, while those who prioritize sound quality may lean towards the Strawberry Wine (V2).
While the bottom housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) are the same, the variation in their top housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing's effect on the bottom-out sound and feel will be similar for both switches due to the properties of nylon. However, the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key will differ, with the polycarbonate of the Medium Tactile creating a sharper sound and the POM of the Strawberry Wine (V2) producing a more muted sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, aesthetics, and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches, it is clear that the Strawberry Wine (V2) is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy option in comparison. While the actuation force of the Medium Tactile switch is not specified, it is evident that it requires a stronger press compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2). Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the lighter Strawberry Wine (V2) being preferred for longer typing sessions, while the heavier Durock Medium Tactile may be favored by those seeking a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has a shorter travel distance compared to the Durock Medium Tactile switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sarokeys switch, while those who prefer a more deliberate keystroke may lean towards the Durock switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium 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
In terms of sound, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique and balanced auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is known for its resonant and clacky notes, offering a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. The sound produced by both switches is distinct and depends on various factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as having an accented and stepped tactility, providing a noticeable amount of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. Additionally, it offers a polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is known for its silky feel, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches provide comfortable typing experiences, with the Medium Tactile offering a balanced tactile feel and the Strawberry Wine (V2) providing a smooth and effortless keystroke.
In conclusion, the Durock Medium Tactile and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Medium Tactile provides a balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers resonant and clacky notes with a silky smooth typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for tactility and sound profile. Both switches are excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when choosing between the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams and a balanced tactile feel with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and a switch with a clacky sound profile, impeccable factory lube job for smooth keystrokes, and a silky typing experience, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and preferences.
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