Outemu Silver vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silver and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine V2 present interesting options. The Outemu Silver is known for its unique attributes, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine V2 boasts its own set of features. The Silver is categorized as linear, while the Strawberry Wine V2 is known for being clacky, resonant, silky, and high-pitched. The Silver switch offers a certain quality that makes it stand out, whereas the Strawberry Wine V2 switch provides a different typing experience with its distinctive characteristics. While general descriptions can help guide your decision, it's essential to delve deeper into each switch's specifics to determine which one best suits your preferences and needs. So, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can 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
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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 Silver and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is evident that they have distinct differences in their top housing. The Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials have their advantages, with polycarbonate being stiffer and more resonant, and POM offering a unique and pleasing sound profile. However, the choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound aesthetics.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Silver and the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is desirable for many keyboard enthusiasts. While both switches use the same material for their bottom housing, the impact of the housing material will be felt when typing and bottoming out on the keys. The differences in sound and feel will likely be more pronounced in the bottom housing compared to the top housing.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silver and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) will come down to personal preference in sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silver offers a clear and resonant sound profile, while the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a more unique and muted sound. Both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, keyboard enthusiasts may find that the differences in housing materials between these two switches will offer varying typing experiences that cater to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Silver has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2) with a bottom out force of 50 grams, making the Silver switch heavier in this aspect. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams. This means that while the initial force required to trigger a keystroke is equal for both switches, the Silver switch will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) would be the more suitable choice, whereas individuals seeking a firmer keystroke may lean towards the Outemu Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver linear 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 Strawberry Wine (V2) switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silver switch. A 0.6 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall typing experience. The Silver switch offers a slightly longer travel distance which may feel more deliberate and satisfying to some users, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch may provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Silver 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 Silver switch does not have a particular reputation or description. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is known for its clacky and resonant qualities, offering a sharp and snappy sound profile that can be described as both crisp and bright. Additionally, the Strawberry Wine switches are said to have a high-pitched sound which may appeal to those who prefer a sharper, crisper sound when typing. It is important to note that the overall sound produced by 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 of the switches, the Outemu Silver switch does not have a specific feel associated with it. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is known for offering a silky smooth typing experience. These switches are designed to minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing a heightened level of smoothness during use. This characteristic can significantly impact the typing experience and may be preferred by individuals who value a seamless and effortless feel while typing.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silver linear switch lacks specific descriptions of sound and feel, making it challenging to directly compare to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch. However, based on the available information, the Strawberry Wine switch is favored for its clacky and resonant sound profile, as well as its silky smooth feel during typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the overall typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Silver with 65 grams might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force at 50 grams, the Strawberry Wine (V2) could be the more suitable option. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and resonant sound with a factory-lubed smooth typing experience, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be an excellent pick. However, if you're looking for a different sound profile and feel, the Outemu Silver might be more to your liking. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
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