PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea linear switch is known for its high-pitched sound with a muted essence, providing a gentle balance between presence and subtlety. With a bottom-out force of 43.5g and a stem material of Ly for effortless keystrokes, it is designed for prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch features resonant and clacky notes, along with a factory lube job that ensures a silky smooth typing experience. While both switches are categorized as clacky, high-pitched, and silky, the Milk Tea also offers a marbly and polished feel, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) is characterized by its resonant quality. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
37.5g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ in terms of the bottom housing. The Milk Tea utilizes a POM bottom housing, which creates a deep and muted sound profile. In comparison, the Strawberry Wine (V2) incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a fuller and rounder sound. This contrast results in a difference in the overall typing experience between the two switches, as the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel.
On the other hand, both switches share a commonality in their top housing material. Both the Milk Tea and the Strawberry Wine (V2) feature a POM top housing, which contributes to an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile characterized by deep tones and muted sound. This similarity in top housing material suggests that despite the differences in their bottom housing, users can expect a somewhat similar sound experience when pressing down on the keys of these switches. The top housing's impact on the sound when releasing a key further reinforces this notion of consistency in sound profile between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) showcases how different materials can influence the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While the POM top housing in both switches offers a shared sound profile, the contrasting POM and nylon bottom housings result in distinct typing experiences. Whether opting for the deep and muted sound of the POM bottom housing in the Milk Tea or the fuller sound of the nylon bottom housing in the Strawberry Wine (V2), users can tailor their switch preferences based on these material differences to suit their typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, some key differences can be observed. The Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Milk Tea makes it ideal for those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, while the heavier actuation force of the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their relatively light actuation and bottom out forces, making them suitable choices for different preferences based on typing style and desired feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. The difference of 0.2 mm between the two switches may not be very noticeable to some users, but for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Milk Tea switch with the longer travel distance may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a high-pitched and marbly sound profile, providing a clean and crisp auditory experience that is both sharp and snappy. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch presents a resonant and clacky sound that is also described as high-pitched and sharp. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Milk Tea leaning towards a more muted essence while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a factory lube job for a silky smooth typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Milk Tea switch is polished and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Similarly, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize a comfortable typing experience, ensuring that each keystroke is satisfying and effortless.
Overall, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. Whether you prefer the resonant and clacky sound of the Strawberry Wine (V2) or the high-pitched marbly sound of the Milk Tea, both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience with different auditory profiles to enhance your typing sessions. Ultimately, both switches are excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a higher-pitched and muted sound profile with a light bottom-out force for prolonged typing sessions, the Milk Tea may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and resonant sound with a slightly higher bottom-out force and impeccable factory lubing for a silky smooth typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what characteristics align best with your typing needs and preferences.