KTT Sea Salt Lemon vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Sea Salt Lemon is a linear switch that provides a buttery smooth typing experience with its progressive spring and dry-lube design, appealing to those who prefer low-pitched and neutral switches. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is also a linear switch but stands out for its resonant and clacky notes, coupled with impeccable factory lube for a silky smooth keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy high-pitched and clacky switches. 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
53g
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
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
13mm progressive spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), both switches feature different top housing materials. The Sea Salt Lemon utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) implements a POM top housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials have their unique sound characteristics, the choice between a sharper or deeper sound profile ultimately comes down to personal preference.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Sea Salt Lemon and the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilize nylon for its softer properties that create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The utilization of nylon in the bottom housing of switches helps to absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material highlights the importance of the material's impact on the overall sound profile of a switch, particularly in providing a deeper and more satisfying typing experience.
Although the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Sea Salt Lemon and the Strawberry Wine (V2), the split in qualities between the two housings ultimately affects the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound produced when a key is released. Understanding the impact of housing materials on the switch's performance allows enthusiasts to tailor their typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, the actuation force is the same at 45 grams for both. However, the bottom out force is slightly heavier for the Sea Salt Lemon at 53 grams compared to the 50 grams for the Strawberry Wine (V2). This means that the Sea Salt Lemon switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Sea Salt Lemon switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference based on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier feel while typing.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, we see that the Sea Salt Lemon has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Sea Salt Lemon switch has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a shorter travel distance, making it ideal for gamers or individuals who seek a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
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 KTT Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, perfect for those looking for a more bass-heavy and mellow tone without being too overwhelming. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound, adding a sharp, bright, and percussive element to your typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound, you can choose between the smoother and more understated Sea Salt Lemon or the more vibrant and resonant Strawberry Wine (V2).
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls in a safe middle ground zone for most users. In comparison, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys for an exceptionally comfortable feel. Whether you prefer a mild and safe typing experience or a silky smooth feel, both switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback.
Overall, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sea Salt Lemon provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound and mild feel, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a more vibrant and resonant typing experience with a clacky sound and silky feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, you can choose between these two exceptional linear switches to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
Overall, when choosing between the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a mild feel, the Sea Salt Lemon might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a silky smooth typing experience with a resonant and clacky sound profile, the Strawberry Wine (V2) could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.