Kailh Sage vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Kailh Sage 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 Kailh Sage and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer unique typing experiences to cater to different preferences. The Kailh Sage is a clicky switch that provides a heavy and sharp clickiness, giving users an invigorating and crunchy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is a linear switch known for its clacky and resonant notes, offering a silky smooth keystroke due to its impeccable factory lube job. Both switches have their own set of characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different typing needs. 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
70g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 Kailh Sage and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), it is clear that both switches have unique characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profile. The Sage's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more vibrant typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, providing a quieter typing experience. While these two materials offer different sound profiles, both are durable and suitable for use with RGB lighting due to their translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both switches use nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than other plastics, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This consistency in bottom housing material between the Sage and Strawberry Wine (V2) ensures that users can expect similar sound characteristics when bottoming out keys, providing a satisfying tactile experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch when typing. While the Sage and Strawberry Wine (V2) have different top housing materials (polycarbonate and POM, respectively), both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that the bottom-out sound and feel will be consistent between the two switches, while the sound on key release may vary due to the differences in top housing material. Ultimately, whether opting for the sharp and crisp sound of the Sage or the deeper and more muted sound of the Strawberry Wine (V2), users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Strawberry Wine is lighter in both aspects. The Sage has an actuation force of None grams, making it difficult to pinpoint an exact measurement, while the Strawberry Wine requires 45 grams of force to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Sage requires 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the Strawberry Wine only requires 50 grams, which is on the lighter end of the spectrum. This means that the Strawberry Wine would provide a lighter typing experience compared to the Sage. It ultimately comes down to personal preference, with some preferring a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different weights, catering to varying preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular in the keyboard market, especially among gamers seeking quicker response times. The Sage switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the type of typing feel desired.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
The Kailh Sage clicky switch is known for its heavy weight and sharp clickiness, providing a distinct and crunchy sound profile reminiscent of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a resonant and clacky sound with a high-pitched profile, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience. The Sage switch provides an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to an impeccable factory lube job.
Overall, if you prefer a more intense tactile feedback and a crunchy sound, the Kailh Sage switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you value a smoother typing feel and a clacky, resonant sound, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is the way to go. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so experimenting with different combinations can lead to unique results. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for any keyboard enthusiast.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a heavy, clicky typing sensation with sharp feedback, the Sage switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, smooth typing experience with resonant and clacky sound notes, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of weight, sound, and feel, so choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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