Haimu Neo White vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Haimu Neo White and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Neo White stands out for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a unique typing feel, while the rare use of a Ly stem ensures smooth actuation for a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers resonant and clacky notes, along with impeccable factory lube job for a silky smooth keystroke. While the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', the Strawberry Wine (V2) falls under 'Clacky', 'Resonant', 'Silky', and 'High-pitched'. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Haimu Neo White and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Neo White's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Neo White and Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing materials suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either of these switches.
When considering the impact of different top and bottom housing materials on key presses, it becomes evident that the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. This division highlights how the choice of housing materials can influence various aspects of the typing experience, allowing users to customize their keyboard to suit their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Neo White has a higher bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2) at 50 grams, making it slightly heavier. However, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams in contrast to the Neo White's unknown actuation force. This means that the Neo White may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a lighter touch for more extended typing sessions. For those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Neo White would be the better option, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is ideal for users who prefer a lighter, more responsive keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Haimu Neo White linear switch is 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 that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Neo White may offer a slightly deeper feel due to its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine switch provides a slightly quicker actuation, making it ideal for those seeking a more responsive and snappy feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience that each individual user is looking for.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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
The Haimu Neo White linear switch is known for its smooth actuation and medium weight, providing a satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound, it offers a neutral profile that is suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch features a clacky and resonant sound profile, thanks to its factory lube job that enhances the overall smoothness of each keystroke. The Strawberry Wine (V2) switch also provides a higher-pitched sound compared to the Neo White switch.
When it comes to feel, the Neo White switch is characterized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in the middle-ground zone. Meanwhile, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provides a silky smooth typing feel that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, making each keystroke a seamless affair.
In conclusion, the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Neo White switch provides a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch delivers a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide an excellent typing experience that suits your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium weight switch with a smooth actuation and slightly reduced travel distance, the Neo White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound profile with a silky smooth typing feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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