KTT Mint vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique experiences for users. The Mint is a linear switch that provides a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness and a light, fleeting feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) also offers a linear feel but with resonant and clacky notes that some users might find appealing. Additionally, the factory lube job on the Strawberry Wine (V2) ensures each keystroke is silky smooth. While both switches have their own distinct characteristics, such as being low-pitched and neutral for the Mint, and clacky and high-pitched for the Strawberry Wine (V2), ultimately the choice between the two 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. However, the Mint's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique and pleasing sound experience.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Mint and the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than other plastics, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. This quality of nylon enhances the overall typing experience on both switches, providing a satisfying sound and feel for users. While the top and bottom housings may differ between the two switches, the nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the KTT Mint and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is crucial in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Mint's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches share the use of nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a fuller and more satisfying typing experience. Whether the focus is on sound profile, feel, or aesthetics, the housing materials of these switches play a significant role in shaping the overall user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Mint has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine's 50 grams, making the Strawberry Wine the lighter option. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that in terms of triggering a keystroke, users will get similar results with either switch. The weight of a switch is crucial as it can impact typing comfort and fatigue levels. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the KTT Mint with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear 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 Mint has a longer travel distance than the Strawberry Wine. The Mint's 4.0mm travel distance falls within the more traditional range, offering a slightly deeper press than the Strawberry Wine. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine's 3.4mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking quicker response times. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the Mint provides a bit more depth in key press compared to the Strawberry Wine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 per 10 switches.
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 KTT Mint linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound that is suitable for various environments and users. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is known for its clacky and resonant notes, featuring a sharp, bright, and percussive sound profile that immerses the user in a clean and sharp auditory experience. Depending on your preference for sound, the Mint may appeal to those who enjoy a more subtle and relaxing tone, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is ideal for individuals looking for a more vibrant and lively typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Mint switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined keypress that falls in a safe middle-ground zone of typing characteristics. With its smooth and refined finish, users can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel with each press. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch presents a silky typing feel, giving users an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Depending on your preference for typing feel, the Mint may cater to those seeking a more subtle and approachable typing experience, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is perfect for individuals who prioritize smoothness and ease of keypress.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Mint provides a low-pitched and neutral sound with a mild and polished feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) delivers a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience that will meet the needs of many mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the KTT Mint linear switch or the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it's important to take into account your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a smoother typing experience with a poppy thockiness, then the Mint may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more resonant and clacky typing experience with impeccable factory lube job for silky smooth keystrokes, then the Strawberry Wine (V2) may be more up your alley. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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