Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding on a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Dustproof Brown, a tactile switch, and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), a linear switch, offer distinct advantages worth considering. The Dustproof Brown is known for its reliable performance, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out for its resonant and clacky notes, enhanced by a factory lube job that ensures silky smooth keystrokes. The Dustproof Brown falls under the tactile category, providing tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) is categorized as clacky, resonant, silky, and high-pitched, offering a different type of typing sensation. 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
65g
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
PCB (5-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 Dustproof Brown and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), we can see distinct differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Dustproof Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. While the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing is known for its clear and resonant sound, the Strawberry Wine's POM top housing offers a unique and pleasing sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that tends to elicit 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. Therefore, in terms of the bottom housing, both the Dustproof Brown and the Strawberry Wine (V2) should provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in the sound profile and typing experience. While the Dustproof Brown and the Strawberry Wine (V2) have different top housing materials, their common nylon bottom housing ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials offer a unique typing experience, with the impact on sound varying depending on the keypress or release. Whether you prefer the crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper tones of POM, both switches provide a distinct sound profile that caters to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch differ significantly in weight. The Dustproof Brown has a medium-heavy actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In comparison, the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. The lighter actuation force of the Strawberry Wine (V2) may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch, while the heavier actuation force of the Dustproof Brown is ideal for individuals looking for a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof 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 Dustproof Brown has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Strawberry Wine. The 0.6 mm may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable difference in typing or gaming experience. The Dustproof Brown may provide a bit more of a cushioned feel compared to the slightly shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference - whether you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more cushioned feel or a shorter travel distance for faster response times.
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 Brown 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 Brown switch is known for its undisclosed characteristics, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as producing a unique combination of clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sounds. This results in a keyboard experience that is sharp, snappy, and immersive, offering a distinct auditory experience compared to other switches on the market.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Brown switch is not known for specific qualities, whereas the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is noted for its silky smooth typing experience. This means that each keystroke on the Strawberry Wine switch is effortless and enhances the overall typing feel, providing minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is clear that the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer different subjective qualities. While the Dustproof Brown switch may offer a mystery in terms of sound and feel, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine switch provides a distinct auditory experience with its clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sounds, as well as a smooth and silky typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound and typing feel in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams and a more traditional tactile feel, the Dustproof Brown might be the better choice for you. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a clacky and resonant sound profile with a silky smooth feel, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch may be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you prioritize.