Akko Penguin vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko Penguin and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Akko Penguin is favored for its silent tactile experience, making it an ideal choice for quiet office environments. With a rounded tactile bump and medium weight, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use, perfect for long typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch boasts resonant and clacky notes, along with a factory lube job that ensures smooth keystrokes. While the Penguin offers a polished and muted feel, the Strawberry Wine delivers a clacky and high-pitched 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Akko Penguin and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for the top housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb sound effectively. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience. However, the Strawberry Wine (V2) differs in its choice of POM for the top housing, which offers a sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to nylon. Despite this difference, both switches offer a pleasing sound output that enhances the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Akko Penguin and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) employ nylon as the material of choice. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its impact on the top housing. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, influencing the overall typing experience.
When considering the impact of different top and bottom housing materials on a switch, it becomes apparent that each component contributes distinct qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out sound and feel, plays a crucial role in determining the overall tactile feedback of the switch. In contrast, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, affecting the overall acoustics of the switch. While the Akko Penguin and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) share similarities in utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, the choice of POM for the top housing in the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a unique sound profile that sets it apart from the Penguin.
Weight
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Penguin requires a heavier 60 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine's 50 grams. The Penguin provides a more medium feel overall, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) is on the lighter side. For those who prefer a light and smooth typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) would be the ideal choice. However, for individuals who desire a bit more resistance and feedback while typing, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference, with the Penguin offering a balance between actuation and bottom out forces, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) leans towards a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko Penguin tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of traditional travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize faster response times. However, the slightly longer travel distance of the Sarokeys switch may provide a slightly more substantial keypress feel compared to the Akko Penguin. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for either a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko Penguin has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Penguin for $3.10.
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.
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 Akko Penguin tactile switch offers a muted and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for office environments where noise reduction is important. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound experience, offering a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. Depending on personal preference, the Penguin switch would be more suitable for those seeking a quieter typing experience, while the Strawberry Wine switch would cater to individuals who enjoy a more pronounced and lively sound with each keystroke.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Akko Penguin tactile switch is described as polished, mild, feathery, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a balance of tactile feedback and reduced friction. Conversely, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is noted for its silky smooth typing feel, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance during key presses. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Penguin switch focusing on a more gentle and approachable feel, while the Strawberry Wine switch offers an exceptionally smooth typing experience with each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Akko Penguin tactile switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Penguin switch excels in providing a quiet and balanced typing experience, particularly ideal for office environments, while the Strawberry Wine switch stands out for its lively and smooth typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and usage scenarios, ensuring that both switches deliver satisfactory results based on the user's preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a quiet typing experience in an office setting with a balanced tactile bump, the Akko Penguin tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clacky and resonant sound profile with a light bottom out force for a smooth typing experience, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is the perfect pick. Remember to consider your environment and typing preferences when selecting between these two switches to enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific requirements you have for your mechanical keyboard.
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