Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the differences between tactile and linear options can significantly impact your typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switch stands out for its refined tactile feedback, featuring a short and medium-strength bump that enhances typing precision without sacrificing speed. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, this switch is ideal for users who enjoy the satisfying sensation of feeling each keypress while providing auditory feedback. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a seamless experience, characterized by its clacky and resonant sound profile. Known for its silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to an impeccable factory lube job, this linear switch caters to those who prefer a quieter typing experience without tactile interruptions. While the Cherry MX Purple RGB excels in tactile engagement, the Strawberry Wine (V2) shines with its smoothness and acoustic charm. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your unique typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is important to note a key difference in the top housing construction. The Cherry MX Purple RGB utilizes a nylon top housing, a material known for its softer characteristics. This softness helps absorb sound, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile that produces a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a Ly top housing, a newer material that provides a bright and resonant sound signature. This combination of housing materials results in a significant divergence in acoustics; while the MX Purple RGB focuses on warmth and depth, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is designed to deliver more pronounced and sharp acoustic feedback.
Despite these differences in top housing materials, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing. Both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon for their bottom housings, allowing for a uniform sound profile when it comes to bottoming out during key presses. Since nylon is a classic switch housing material, its inherent softness contributes to a fuller sound experience for both switches when pressed down. This shared material in the bottom housing ensures that regardless of the differences in the top housing, the bottom-out feel and sound remains consistent, providing an inherently similar tactile response.
Considering the implications of having different materials for the top and bottom housings, the overall typing experience becomes a blend of both qualities. For the Cherry MX Purple RGB, the softer nylon top results in a subdued sound when releasing keys, while the nylon bottom maintains a consistent deeper tone when bottomed out. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offers pronounced clacks upon release due to its brighter Ly top housing, with the softness of the nylon bottom still contributing to the overall sound profile. Ultimately, despite the different sound signatures produced by the top housings, the two switches share enough common ground in their nylon bottom housings to yield comparable tactile responses and bottoming-out sensations.
Weight
The Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch exhibit similar actuation forces, both requiring 45 grams to activate, which can provide a consistent typing experience for users who prefer a lighter touch. However, the bottom out force for the MX Purple RGB is unknown, making it difficult to compare directly with the Strawberry Wine, which has a bottom out force of 52 grams. This indicates that the Strawberry Wine requires a bit more force to bottom out, categorizing it as a medium-light switch. For those who enjoy a snappier and more tactile feedback without requiring too much exertion, the MX Purple might be preferable; however, typists looking for a more substantial feel as they complete their keystrokes might find the heavier bottom out force of the Strawberry Wine to their liking. Ultimately, the MX Purple is the lighter option in terms of actuation, while the Strawberry Wine is heavier due to its distinct bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The Cherry MX Purple RGB has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is aligned with traditional switch depths and may provide users with a more substantial tactile feel. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This smaller distance could cater to gamers or users seeking quicker response times, although it might feel abrupt to those who prefer a deeper actuation. Therefore, if you're looking for a heartier feedback sensation, the Cherry MX Purple RGB would be the preferable option, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) could better serve users who prioritize speed and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is notable for its relatively subdued noise profile compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). The Strawberry Wine switches are characterized by their clacky and resonant notes, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This results in a vibrant auditory experience, incorporating a high-pitched, crisp sound that can enhance the overall typing enjoyment. In contrast, while the specific sound characteristics for the MX Purple RGB were not detailed, it is understood that it likely offers a more muted auditory experience, making it a suitable option for environments where noise levels may be a concern.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB presents a refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump, which encourages a decisive action without being overly jarring. While the specific tactile quality is not explicitly laid out, one can infer that it aims to provide an engaging yet balanced typing experience. However, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches shine with their silky smoothness, largely due to an impeccable factory lube job. This results in a typing experience that feels exceptionally smooth and effortless, giving users a delightfully gliding sensation when pressing the keys.
In summary, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB offers a well-balanced tactile experience characterized by its discrete bump, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) excels in sound with its lively clacky and resonant notes, and provides a notably smooth feel. Choosing between these two will largely depend on whether you prefer tactile feedback with a quieter sound profile or a richer acoustic experience with a silky typing feel. The Cherry MX Purple RGB may suit those looking for a more subdued, tactile switch, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is ideal for users who appreciate a high-pitched auditory experience complemented by smooth keystrokes.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a tactile feedback with a well-defined bump that provides a more engaging typing experience, the MX Purple RGB is likely the better option for you. Its tactile nature is great for both typing and gaming, offering a satisfying experience that keeps your fingers grounded yet responsive. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, smoother keystroke with an emphasis on sound and feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is an excellent choice. With its medium-light actuation force and silky smooth motion accompanied by a clacky, resonant sound profile, these switches are perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. In short, if you like tactile feedback and responsiveness, go for the MX Purple, but if sound and smoothness are your priorities, the Strawberry Wine (V2) will undoubtedly elevate your keyboard experience.
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