Cherry MX Brown vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Brown and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Cherry MX Brown is praised for its subtlety, providing a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer a unique experience with resonant and clacky notes and an impeccable factory lube job for smooth keystrokes. While the MX Brown is categorized as 'Textured', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched', the Strawberry Wine (V2) is classified as 'Clacky', 'Resonant', 'Silky', 'High-pitched'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics, making it important to consider your preferences and typing style when choosing between them. 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
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Brown and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both feature nylon top housing, which is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. However, the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its POM top housing, offering an incredibly pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and somewhat muted. This difference in top housing material may result in a slightly varied typing experience between the two switches, with the Strawberry Wine (V2) potentially providing a more distinct sound profile compared to the Cherry MX Brown.
On the other hand, both the Cherry MX Brown and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon bottom housing, creating a similar deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon plastic absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. While the bottom housing material of these switches may be the same, the overall typing experience could still differ based on the top housing material, as it can impact the sound when releasing a key. Despite their similarities in bottom housing, the Cherry MX Brown and Strawberry Wine (V2) may offer distinct typing experiences due to their differences in top housing material.
In conclusion, the choice between the Cherry MX Brown and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) ultimately comes down to individual preference in sound and typing feel. While both switches feature nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Strawberry Wine (V2) sets itself apart with its POM top housing, providing a unique and pleasing sound experience. Whether you prefer a more muted and deeper sound profile or a slightly rounder and fuller sound, both switches have their own advantages and qualities to offer for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing feel for each user.
Weight
The actuation force for the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is the same at 45 grams, making them both light to the touch when triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cherry MX Brown has a heavier force of 55 grams compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine's 50 grams, which makes typing on the Cherry MX Brown more substantial and satisfying for those who prefer a stronger push feel. If you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) would be the preferable choice due to its lighter bottom out force. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may opt for the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), while those who prefer a bit more resistance may find the Cherry MX Brown to be more suitable.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown 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 Strawberry Wine (V2) has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Brown, making it a better option for those looking for a faster and more responsive typing experience. However, some users may prefer the longer travel distance of the MX Brown for a more satisfying and deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their bassy and low-pitched tones, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer a clacky and resonant sound, with a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience. The choice between the two ultimately depends on whether you prefer a more subdued and bass-heavy sound (MX Brown) or a sharper and brighter sound (Strawberry Wine).
In terms of feel, Cherry MX Brown switches are described as textured, offering a subtle friction when pressed that some users may prefer. In comparison, Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches provide a silky smooth typing experience thanks to an impeccable factory lube job, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. The decision here lies between a slightly textured typing experience (MX Brown) and an exceptionally smooth and friction-free one (Strawberry Wine).
Considering all the available information, Cherry MX Brown switches excel in subtlety with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, making them a solid choice for those seeking a light typing experience with a bass-heavy sound profile. On the other hand, Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches stand out for their clacky and resonant notes, offering a unique typing experience with exceptional smoothness. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring that you'll get similar quality results regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback, the MX Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light typing experience with resonant and clacky notes, impeccable factory lube job for silky smooth keystrokes, and a lower bottom out force, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) could be the ideal switch for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience, sound profile, and feel you value the most in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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