KTT Pine vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Pine and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. The KTT Pine is a linear switch that boasts a medium-heavy feel, buttery smooth action, and a luxurious typing experience due to its polished, factory-lubed finish. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) also a linear switch, presents a different experience with resonant and clacky notes, making each keystroke a silky smooth affair thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. While the Pine is described as 'bassy' and 'creamy', the Strawberry Wine (V2) is categorized as 'clacky' and 'resonant'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Pine and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is evident that the Pine utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate in the Pine creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique auditory experience. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine.
While the top housing materials of the KTT Pine and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ, their bottom housing materials also contrast with the Pine utilizing polycarbonate and the Strawberry Wine (V2) featuring nylon. The impact of the bottom housing material on the sound profile when pressing down on the switch is apparent, with the polycarbonate in the Pine contributing to a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound compared to the fuller sound elicited by the nylon in the Strawberry Wine (V2). Conversely, the qualities of the top housing material become more noticeable when releasing a key, with the polycarbonate in the Pine creating a distinct sound profile while the POM in the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a deeper and more muted sound.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for switches such as the KTT Pine and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) plays a significant role in the resulting sound profile and overall typing experience. The utilization of different materials for the top and bottom housings allows for a split in the qualities each material brings to the switch, impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound produced when releasing a key. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate in the Pine emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the POM and nylon in the Strawberry Wine (V2) create a deeper and more muted sound, providing users with a variety of options to suit their preferred typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Pine linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, the actuation force is the same for both at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force differs, with the Pine requiring 58 grams and the Strawberry Wine needing 50 grams. This makes the Strawberry Wine (V2) lighter in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Strawberry Wine (V2) may be the preferred choice for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Pine switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, which is considered a more traditional depth. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Pine with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Pine linear switch is known for its bassy and low-pitched tones, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a clacky and resonant sound, producing sharp, snappy notes that create an immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Pine switch may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper, bass-heavy sound, while the Strawberry Wine switch caters to individuals who prefer a crisper, brighter tone.
In terms of feel, the KTT Pine linear switch is praised for its buttery and creamy typing experience, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke that is effortless and uniform. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a silky typing sensation, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, but the Pine switch may appeal more to those who enjoy a seamless, buttery feel, while the Strawberry Wine switch caters to individuals who prefer an exceptionally smooth typing experience.
Overall, the subjective qualities of the KTT Pine linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences. While the Pine switch emphasizes a deeper, bassier sound and a buttery, creamy feel, the Strawberry Wine switch focuses on sharp, clacky notes and a silky typing sensation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide exceptional options to consider for an effortless and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal sound and feel preferences, ensuring that newcomers can find the perfect match for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Pine linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the bottom out force as a key factor. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, then the KTT Pine switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound and feel preferences when choosing between the two switches. If you prefer a bassy and low-pitched sound with a buttery and creamy feel, the KTT Pine switch might be the better option. However, if you enjoy a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth feel, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience.
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