Outemu Milk Tea vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Tea and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Milk Tea is a tactile switch that is best known for its unique qualities. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is a linear switch that stands out for its resonant and clacky notes, along with a silky smooth keystroke experience thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. While the Milk Tea provides tactile feedback for a satisfying typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a smooth and consistent keystroke with a high-pitched sound profile. 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
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Ly
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 Milk Tea and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is clear that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings, highlighting the similarities in sound produced by both switches.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housings. The Milk Tea utilizes a Ly top housing, which offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing, creating a unique sound profile on the deeper side that is relatively more muted. This contrast in top housing materials showcases the different sound experiences that each switch provides, catering to different preferences in typing sound.
When considering the overall typing experience, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role. The qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when letting go of a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for typing sound.
Weight
Both the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they will both require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, with 50 grams compared to the Milk Tea's unknown bottom out force. The Milk Tea offers a softer bottom out experience, which may be preferred by those who type for longer periods of time or engage in extended gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a slightly heavier bottom out force, giving a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Tea 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. This means that the Milk Tea has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Strawberry Wine. The 0.6 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing experience. The Milk Tea will provide a bit more depth and cushion compared to the Strawberry Wine, which may feel more responsive due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and response time.
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 Milk Tea 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Milk Tea switch does not have a specific descriptor mentioned, indicating a lack of notable sound characteristics. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is known for its clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound profile. This means that the Strawberry Wine switch will produce a sharp, snappy sound with a higher pitch, providing a more immersive auditory experience compared to the Milk Tea switch.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Milk Tea switch does not have a descriptor provided, so the typing experience of this switch is unknown. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is described as providing a silky smooth typing experience. This suggests that users can expect minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing overall typing comfort and fluidity.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers distinct advantages in both sound and feel compared to the Outemu Milk Tea switch. While the Milk Tea switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel, the Strawberry Wine switch provides a clacky and resonant sound profile paired with a silky smooth typing experience. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique auditory experience and a comfortable typing feel, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch would be an excellent choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch or the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with no discernible bottom out force and are looking for a switch that is best known for an as-of-yet unspecified feature, the Milk Tea may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a light bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a switch known for its resonant and clacky notes, along with a silky smooth typing experience due to an impeccable factory lube job, then the Strawberry Wine (V2) may be the ideal choice for you. Each switch offers unique sound and feel qualities, so make sure to consider these factors when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Milk Tea and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing preferences.
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