Gateron Mountain Top vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. The Gateron Mountain Top is ideal for office environments, offering a quiet yet tactile typing experience that is perfect for professional settings. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches provide a satisfyingly clacky and resonant typing experience with a smooth feel due to the factory lube job. While the Mountain Top is bouncy and easy-to-press, the Strawberry Wine is clacky and high-pitched. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between them comes down to personal preference. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), we see that the Mountain Top utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) uses POM for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. Both nylon and POM are considered classic switch housing materials that elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their relatively softer nature compared to harder plastics. However, the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) creates a more muted sound compared to the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top, which produces a duller and rounder sound.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the materials used for the top housing. The usage of POM in the Strawberry Wine (V2) creates an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted, while the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top produces a somewhat rounder and duller sound. On the other hand, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for the Gateron Mountain Top and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) plays a significant role in determining the sound profiles and typing experience of each switch. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the usage of POM in the Strawberry Wine (V2) top housing sets it apart with a more muted sound compared to the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top. This difference highlights how even subtle variations in housing materials can result in distinct sound profiles and overall typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, we see that while both switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, the actuation force differs slightly. The Mountain Top has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a bit more resistance for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a light bottom out force, suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. So, while the Mountain Top is lighter in terms of actuation force, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a slightly heavier option for those who prefer a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience with neither one being shorter or longer than the other.
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 Gateron Mountain Top comes in at $6.00 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 Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound, creating a more lively and immersive auditory experience. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound characteristics, with the Mountain Top offering a more adaptable sound and the Strawberry Wine (V2) providing a more distinct and vibrant sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mountain Top switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle, offering a range of sensations from lively rebound to gentle resistance. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is specifically noted for its silky smooth typing feel, enhancing overall smoothness without much resistance. Again, the decision between the two switches would hinge on the desired typing experience, with the Mountain Top providing a variety of tactile sensations and the Strawberry Wine (V2) focusing on exceptional smoothness.
Considering the available information, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences. The Mountain Top switch emphasizes adaptability and subtlety in sound and feel, making it suitable for professional environments. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch prioritizes a lively and immersive sound experience alongside silky smooth typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you value a more neutral and versatile performance or a more vibrant and smooth typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard setup based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that is ideal for professional environments with a quiet typing experience, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that provides a more resonant and clacky typing experience with impeccable factory lubrication for a silky smooth feel, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch would suit you better. Consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard and your personal preferences for sound and feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and environment.
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