SP-Star RedBlue vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star RedBlue and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer distinct qualities to cater to different preferences. The RedBlue linear switches are renowned for their medium-light typing experience and low-pitched sound profile, making them ideal for those seeking a polished and mild typing feel. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine switches stand out for their resonant and clacky notes, coupled with a factory lube job that ensures silky smooth keystrokes. While the RedBlue may appeal to users who prefer a neutral and thocky typing experience, the Strawberry Wine switches cater to those who enjoy a high-pitched and clacky sound while typing. 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
57g
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
The housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer different sound profiles and aesthetics. The RedBlue features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a POM top housing, producing a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the RedBlue is better suited for RGB lighting due to its translucency, providing a visually appealing option for customization.
In terms of bottom housing, the SP-Star RedBlue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) continue to offer distinct sound profiles. The RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound, complementing the qualities of the top housing. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a nylon bottom housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound quality. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards the crisper sound of the RedBlue or the deeper sound of the Strawberry Wine (V2) based on their typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ in material, both influence the typing experience in unique ways. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balance of sound and feel when typing on each switch. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during a key press, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer a sharper and more resonant typing experience with the RedBlue or a deeper and fuller sound profile with the Strawberry Wine (V2), both switches offer distinct qualities to cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The RedBlue has a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter with a bottom out force of 50 grams. The actuation force of the RedBlue is unspecified, but for the Strawberry Wine (V2), it is 45 grams. This makes the Strawberry Wine (V2) a lighter option overall compared to the RedBlue. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Strawberry Wine (V2) for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may find the RedBlue more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The RedBlue 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 terms of travel distance, the RedBlue is longer than the Strawberry Wine (V2). The RedBlue's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the key, which may appeal to those who prefer a hearty depth when typing. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) with its 3.4 mm travel distance offers a shorter and quicker typing experience, making it a favorite among gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance - whether you prefer a longer, more substantial press or a shorter, more responsive feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a low-pitched and thocky typing experience. The sound produced is more bass-heavy and mellow, resulting in a deep and satisfying tone. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a different auditory experience with its clacky and resonant notes. The sound is sharp, bright, and percussive, creating a clean and sharp sound profile. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can enjoy a personalized typing experience based on their auditory preferences.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The switches provide a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users, along with a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a silky smooth typing experience. These switches offer exceptionally smooth key travel and minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, resulting in a luxurious typing feel. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness, ensuring that users can type effortlessly and enjoy a comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. While the RedBlue switch provides a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, along with a mild and polished typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a clacky and resonant sound profile, paired with a silky smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to customize their typing experience accordingly. Overall, both switches excel in providing unique qualities that enhance the typing experience, ensuring that users can enjoy a personalized and enjoyable typing experience based on their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the RedBlue switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light bottom out force with resonant and clacky sound notes, along with an impeccable factory lube job for a silky smooth typing experience, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference and what typing experience you value the most.
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