Outemu Blue vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the clicky Outemu Blue switch and the linear Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch. The Outemu Blue switch is categorized as a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and satisfying click sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch falls into the linear category, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke experience without the audible click. If you enjoy the auditory feedback and pronounced tactile feel, the Outemu Blue switch might be the way to go. Alternatively, if you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch could be more suitable for your needs. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), we find that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile in the Blue switch, while the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate in the Blue switch is known for its clear and resonant qualities, especially when paired with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a pleasing and distinct sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, we see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. The nylon bottom housing of both the Outemu Blue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) helps to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similar choice in bottom housing material ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Blue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ, the qualities of the housing materials are distributed throughout the switches. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distribution ensures that each switch maintains its unique sound profile and typing experience, despite differences in housing materials. Ultimately, whether you prefer the sharper and resonant sound of polycarbonate in the Blue switch or the deeper and more muted sound of POM in the Strawberry Wine (V2), both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force is heavier for the Strawberry Wine (V2) at 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Blue switch is unknown. This means that the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch requires a lighter initial force to trigger a keystroke but a heavier force when pressing all the way down, providing a balanced typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Blue clicky switch offers a more consistent feel throughout the keystroke. When considering weight, users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Strawberry Wine (V2) for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the heavier bottom out force of the Blue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience each user is looking for.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that the Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.4 mm of the Strawberry Wine (V2). This means that the Blue switch offers a deeper key press experience, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine (V2) for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Outemu Blue clicky switch. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, with the length of travel distance catering to different preferences.
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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky feedback, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy the tactile response and audible confirmation of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is described as clacky, resonant, and high-pitched, providing a sharp and snappy sound profile that can enhance the typing experience with its clear and immersive auditory feedback. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Blue switch delivering a satisfying click while the Strawberry Wine switch offers a crisper and brighter sound.
As for the feel, the Outemu Blue switch and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provide distinct typing experiences. The Blue switch is known for its tactile bump and audible click, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with each keypress. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The factory-lubed Strawberry Wine switch ensures a smooth and effortless keypress, enhancing the overall typing comfort and efficiency.
In conclusion, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer different but equally appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue switch excels in providing a loud and tactile feedback with its clicky sound and tactile bump, the Strawberry Wine switch stands out for its crisp and clacky sound profile and silky smooth typing experience. Whether you prefer the audible click of the Blue switch or the smooth feel of the Strawberry Wine switch, both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and audible confirmation or smooth and effortless keypresses.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the factors that will best suit your typing preferences. If you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with no bottom out force and are looking for a switch best known for its clickiness, the Outemu Blue switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a light bottom out force, a smooth and silky typing experience with a resonant and clacky sound profile, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you value most. Choose wisely and enjoy the satisfying feel of your mechanical keyboard!
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