Gateron Melodic vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Gateron Melodic and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). The Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that redefines the category with its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, delivering a satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining smoothness. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is a linear switch known for its resonant and clacky notes, along with a flawless factory lube job that ensures each keystroke is silky smooth. While the Melodic is described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', the Strawberry Wine (V2) is characterized by being 'Clacky', 'Resonant', 'Silky', and 'High-pitched'. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles, but ultimately, diving deeper into their specific features will help you make the best decision for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Melodic and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Melodic's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a clear and resonant sound profile, making them ideal choices for those who prioritize sound quality in their mechanical keyboards.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Melodic and the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon material to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This common bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with a focus on sound quality. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Melodic or a deeper sound with the Strawberry Wine (V2), the nylon bottom housing enhances the overall sound profile of each switch.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Melodic and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ in material, they each contribute unique qualities to the overall sound experience. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Melodic or the deeper sound of POM in the Strawberry Wine (V2), both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with a focus on sound clarity and resonance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic preferences such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Melodic has a higher bottom out force of 60 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine's 50 grams, making the Melodic heavier in this aspect. The actuation force of the Melodic is unspecified, while the Strawberry Wine has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. The difference in weight between the two switches is significant, with the Melodic offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Strawberry Wine caters to those who appreciate a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Melodic switch offers a slightly deeper keypress feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine switch provides a slightly quicker key response due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers seeking faster reaction times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a high-pitched sound profile that immerses users in a crisp and sharp auditory journey. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a clacky and resonant typing sound, with bright and percussive notes that create a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, but users can expect a satisfying auditory experience from either option.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Melodic switch is known for its buttery and invigorating typing sensation, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with pronounced feedback and snappy, reactive feel. Meanwhile, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Whether you prefer a more pronounced feedback with moderate actuation force or a silky smooth typing experience, both switches deliver on providing a satisfying tactile feel for users.
In conclusion, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Melodic switch provides a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch delivers a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth typing experience. Whether you prefer a clicky or linear switch, both options promise a satisfying typing experience that will elevate your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, but rest assured that both switches will deliver excellent performance for your daily use.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback with smoothness, the Gateron Melodic would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a silky smooth keystroke with resonant and clacky sound profiles, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the characteristics that you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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