Outemu Purple vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Purple tactile switch to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it's clear that they offer distinct characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Purple switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch stands out for its clacky and resonant notes, offering a smooth typing experience thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. While the Purple switch is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile feel while typing, the Strawberry Wine switch appeals to individuals seeking a clacky and smooth keystroke. 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
2.00 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
The Outemu Purple and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which give them a similar sharp, high-pitched sound profile. However, the Purple's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a clearer and more resonant sound due to its stiffness, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a crisper or a more subdued sound.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Purple and the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches. However, the difference in top housing materials may still influence the overall sound profile and feel of the switches when typing.
Overall, the different housing materials used in the Outemu Purple and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches contribute to their distinct sound profiles. While the Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a fuller sound experience. Ultimately, users can choose between these switches based on their preference for sound characteristics, whether they prefer a sharper, more resonant sound or a deeper, more muted sound.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role in determining the typing experience. The Outemu Purple switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the lighter 45 grams of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch. However, the bottom out force of the Strawberry Wine (V2) is 50 grams, indicating that it requires more pressure to fully press down the key compared to the Purple switch with an unknown bottom out force. This means that users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Purple switch. In both cases, the actuation force plays a crucial role in determining the typing comfort and endurance for the user, with a lighter actuation force being ideal for longer typing sessions and gaming.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, we find that the Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.4 mm travel distance of the Strawberry Wine. The Purple switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Strawberry Wine provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may lean towards the Strawberry Wine for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Purple switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Purple 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 Purple tactile switch is known for its neutral reputation, lacking any distinct characteristics. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is praised for its unique combination of being clacky, resonant, and high-pitched. This results in a keyboard experience that is sharp, crisp, and bright, providing an immersive auditory experience for the user. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Purple switch is not known for any specific tactile qualities. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as offering a silky typing experience. This means that each keystroke with the Strawberry Wine switch feels exceptionally smooth, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This smoothness can greatly enhance the overall typing feel for the user, making it a favorite among those who prioritize a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Purple tactile switch may lack distinct sound and feel characteristics, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch shines in both aspects. With its unique combination of clacky and resonant sound qualities, as well as its silky smooth typing experience, the Strawberry Wine switch offers a truly exceptional keyboarding experience that is both enjoyable to hear and feel. Whether you prefer a neutral switch like the Purple or the more distinct characteristics of the Strawberry Wine, both switches offer quality options for a personalized mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine V2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a light bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy a clacky, resonant sound profile with an impeccable factory lube job for smooth keystrokes, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine V2 linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams and value a quieter sound profile along with a more pronounced tactile feedback, then the Outemu Purple tactile switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and sound preferences.
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