Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) both offer unique qualities worth considering. The V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, boasting a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and precise keystrokes. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its resonant and clacky notes, coupled with an impeccable factory lube job for a smooth typing experience. While the V3 Silver Pro is described as 'easy-to-press' and 'creamy', the Strawberry Wine (V2) is labeled as 'clacky' and 'resonant'. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13.8mm spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Silver Pro and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) have different housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The V3 Silver Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile when compared to the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2). Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound, while POM produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials have their own unique qualities that cater to different sound preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall typing experience by providing a more satisfying sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience that combines the unique qualities of each material.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) differ in terms of the top housing (polycarbonate vs. POM), they both share the use of nylon in the bottom housing. This ensures that both switches offer a deep and full sound profile that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound from polycarbonate or a deeper and more muted sound from POM, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience that showcases the unique qualities of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, the V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions. The difference in force between the two switches is minimal, so users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out pressures. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for a lighter or slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Silver Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Strawberry Wine's 3.4 mm. While the difference may seem minor, it can have an impact on the typing experience. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Silver Pro for faster response times, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Strawberry Wine. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feedback and response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is best described as having a high-pitched and bassy sound profile, providing a sharp and crisp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a combination of clacky and resonant notes, resulting in a sharp, snappy, and immersive sound. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for sound characteristics, whether it be a preference for the sharpness of the Akko V3 Silver Pro or the more varied tones of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is synonymous with being easy-to-press, offering a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The switches are described as creamy, feathery, and polished, promising a smooth and low-impact typing experience. Contrastingly, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is solely described as silky, highlighting an exceptionally smooth typing feel that minimizes resistance during key presses and releases. This indicates a preference for smoothness and reduced friction with the Sarokeys switch, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro offers a mix of qualities like light actuation force and reduced finger fatigue.
Overall, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch excels in providing a bassy, high-pitched sound profile, paired with an easy-to-press and smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a more varied sound experience with clacky and resonant tones, alongside an incredibly silky typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the former focusing on speed and lightness, and the latter emphasizing smoothness and a unique auditory experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on whether one values a specific sound profile or typing feel in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a gamer looking for switches specifically engineered for gaming scenarios where quick keystrokes are crucial, then the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch with a light 45-gram bottom out force is the way to go. These switches offer an easy-to-press feel and produce a pleasing bassy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you are looking for switches with a factory-lubed smooth and silky typing experience, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch with a slightly higher 50-gram bottom out force might be more suitable for you. These switches offer a resonant and clacky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a sharp and bright auditory experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should come down to whether you prioritize gaming performance or typing comfort and sound aesthetics.
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