Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) each offer unique qualities to consider. The Dustproof Black is best known for its durability and resistance to dust, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out for its clacky and resonant typing experience, coupled with a silky smooth feel thanks to its factory lubrication. The Dustproof Black is categorized as a linear switch, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) falls into the categories of clacky, resonant, silky, and high-pitched. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different users. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), one noticeable difference is in their top housing. While the Dustproof Black features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a POM top housing which produces a deeper and more muted sound. The polycarbonate in the Dustproof Black offers a clear and resonant sound, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while the POM in the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a unique and pleasing sound profile on the deeper side.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches use nylon which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both the Dustproof Black and the Strawberry Wine (V2) will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to their bottom housing material. However, the impact of the bottom housing is more prominent during bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) will ultimately come down to individual preferences. The Dustproof Black's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing combination offer a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing and nylon bottom housing create a more unique and deeper sound profile that may appeal to users looking for a different typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality housing materials that contribute to their overall sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Black switch is heavier while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is lighter. The Dustproof Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option that allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their force requirements, catering to users who prefer heavier or lighter actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Strawberry Wine (V2). The Dustproof Black offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) falls on the shallower end of the spectrum. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine (V2), while those looking for a more substantial and deep key press experience may opt for the Dustproof Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Dustproof Black 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 Dustproof Black switch is known for being neutral in terms of sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience suitable for those who prefer a more subtle sound while typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is characterized by its clacky and resonant sound profile, offering a sharper and crisper typing experience that is more engaging and immersive. The high-pitched sound produced by the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch adds a unique auditory element to your typing sessions, making each keystroke stand out with clarity and precision.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black switch does not have specific descriptors available, which indicates a more standard typing feel without any standout features. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is known for its silky smooth feel, thanks to the impeccable factory lube job that enhances the overall typing experience. This smoothness reduces resistance when pressing and releasing keys, making typing on the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch a comfortable and effortless process.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Outemu Dustproof Black and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer contrasting subjective qualities. While the Dustproof Black switch provides a neutral sound profile and a standard typing feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch stands out with its clacky and resonant sound, along with a silky smooth typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the two switches to tailor your mechanical keyboard setup to your liking. Overall, with the Dustproof Black switch offering a quieter experience and the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch delivering a more engaging and smooth typing feel, you are likely to achieve different results in terms of sound and feel with each switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch or the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, you should choose the Dustproof Black if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and are looking for a switch without any specific standout features. On the other hand, opt for the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and are interested in switches known for their resonant and clacky sound profile, along with a silky smooth typing experience due to a factory lube job. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing force and the sound and feel you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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