SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, there are certain key differences to consider. The Polaris Gray is favored by those who enjoy a bouncy typing experience with clean and clacky sound profiles, offering a low-pitched and neutral feel that is perfect for a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches from Sarokeys boast resonant and clacky notes, along with a silky smooth feel thanks to a top-notch factory lube job. They provide a high-pitched sound and are known for their exceptional quality. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
Both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. Conversely, the Strawberry Wine (V2) uses POM for its top housing and nylon for its bottom housing, creating a deeper, fuller sound that is more muted. While the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate housing provides a crisper sound ideal for RGB lighting effects, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a more classic sound experience with its nylon bottom housing.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Polaris Gray and Strawberry Wine (V2) offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Polaris Gray's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and brighter sound profile, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) with its POM and nylon housing combination offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear sound or a muted and rounder sound, both switches provide unique options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific sound profile.
When comparing the Polaris Gray and the Strawberry Wine (V2), the choice of housing materials significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch. The polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray creates a sharper and crisper sound, especially noticeable when releasing a key, while the POM and nylon housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) offer a deeper and fuller sound profile that affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound experience of each switch, catering to different preferences and providing enthusiasts with a variety of options to customize their keyboard sound.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it's clear that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter. In terms of actuation force, the Polaris Gray has None grams mentioned, and the Strawberry Wine (V2) has 45 grams. A higher actuation force usually translates to a more substantial typing experience, while a lighter actuation force allows for more extended typing sessions without fatigue. So, those who prefer a stronger push feel may lean towards the Polaris Gray, while those looking for a lighter typing experience may opt for the Strawberry Wine (V2).Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with the Polaris Gray providing a heavier typing experience and the Strawberry Wine (V2) offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is 4.0mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. The shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine (V2) may make it more appealing to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the Polaris Gray may be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper key press. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Polaris Gray providing a bit more depth compared to the slightly shorter travel of the Strawberry Wine (V2). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a low-pitched and thocky profile, providing a bass-heavy and satisfying tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch delivers a clacky and resonant sound, offering a sharp and crisp auditory experience with higher-pitched notes. Both switches excel in sound quality, with the Polaris Gray providing a clean and clacky tone, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a more immersive and percussive sound profile. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the deep thocky sound of the Polaris Gray or the sharp clacky resonance of the Strawberry Wine (V2).
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is characterized by a mild typing experience with polished qualities, offering a gentle and refined feel with smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches excel in delivering a comfortable and approachable typing feel, with the Polaris Gray offering a middle-ground zone of qualities and the Strawberry Wine (V2) enhancing overall smoothness. Whether looking for a more refined and polished feel or an exceptionally smooth typing experience, both switches provide excellent options for users.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch each offer unique and appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Polaris Gray provides a bouncy and satisfying typing experience with clean and clacky sounds, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a resonant and clacky tone with impeccably smooth key travel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Polaris Gray delivering a low-pitched thocky sound and a mild polished feel, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a high-pitched clacky sound and a silky smooth typing experience. Overall, users can expect a premium typing experience with either switch, depending on their individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch or the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, you should factor in your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a bouncy typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clean, clacky sound, the Polaris Gray may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with resonant and clacky notes, along with an impeccable factory lube job for a silky smooth typing feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is a great option. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing style and preference for sound and feel.
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