Huano Strawberry Latte vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, personal preference plays a pivotal role, and two impressive options in the realm of linear switches are the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2). The Strawberry Latte is celebrated for its super smooth keystrokes, crafted using the latest molds from Huano, and offers a balanced sound profile that is neither too quiet nor overly resonant. This makes it an excellent choice for users seeking a consistent and pleasant typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) brings a different flavor to the table with its clacky and resonant tones, complemented by an impeccable factory lube job that ensures silky smooth actuations with a slight high-pitched character. This switch caters to those who appreciate auditory feedback and a bit more personality in their typing sound. Both switches provide unique traits that can enhance your typing experience, but if you're looking for a straightforward, smooth feel versus a more vibrant auditory feedback experience, your choice may vary significantly. 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
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Huano Strawberry Latte and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), key differences emerge primarily in their top housing. The Strawberry Latte utilizes POK material, renowned for its low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability. With a friction coefficient of 0.04, it provides a smooth keystroke experience and also demonstrates remarkable wear resistance, being 14 times stronger than conventional POM. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a LY top housing, which, while not as durable as POK, offers a bright and resonant sound signature. The prominent clacks produced by LY material enhance the auditory experience but may not provide the same tactile smoothness that POK facilitates. Thus, while both materials serve distinct purposes, they ultimately influence the feel and sound of the switches quite differently.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which creates a uniformity in sound and feel characteristics. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its relative softness. This shared bottom housing results in a similar noise dampening effect and a rounder auditory experience when typing on either switch. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound rather than reflect it, creating a warm typing experience that is consistent across both the Strawberry Latte and the Strawberry Wine (V2). Therefore, while the top housings diverge in material and sound signature, the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing helps to create a common ground in the overall auditory profile of the switches.
Ultimately, the combination of the two different top housing materials and the similar bottom housing facilitates a nuanced typing experience. The POK top housing of the Strawberry Latte highlights smoothness and durability but does not provide the same auditory enjoyment as the LY top housing on the Strawberry Wine (V2). The performance of the switches will differ in terms of tactile feedback and sound profile when a key is pressed and released. However, the uniformity offered by the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a strong foundation of rich sound and a fuller typing experience, despite their differences in upper housing materials. This interplay of unique and similar characteristics allows users to enjoy distinct yet subtly aligned typing experiences with both switch types.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, there are notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces that influence the typing experience. The Strawberry Latte has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for long sessions at work or gaming. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some typists might prefer for enhanced tactile feedback. This means that the Strawberry Latte is the lighter option, catering to those who prioritize comfort, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) appeals to users seeking a firmer push. Overall, while both switches serve a distinct preference, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces make it clear that one caters to lightness and the other to a medium-light, more pronounced experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is identical, with both switches featuring a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable keypress experience when utilizing either switch, providing consistent feedback and responsiveness during typing or gaming. Consequently, those who prefer the feel of one switch over the other can confidently choose between them without worrying about significant differences in travel distance affecting their experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Strawberry Latte has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Latte for $3.29.
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 Huano Strawberry Latte offers a balanced acoustic profile, striking a middle ground that is neither overly quiet nor excessively resonant. This makes it a versatile choice for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is characterized by its clunky, resonant, and high-pitched sound. The clacky notes deliver a sharp and snappy auditory feedback, and the overall sound profile presents a bright, percussive tone that is immersive and engaging. Users seeking a more pronounced auditory cue when typing may find the Strawberry Wine (V2) particularly appealing.
When it comes to feel, the Huano Strawberry Latte is renowned for its exceptionally smooth operation, reportedly using the latest mold technology from Huano to provide a seamless typing experience. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) boasts an impeccable factory lube job, which enhances the silky smoothness of each keystroke. This combination minimizes resistance both when pressing and releasing keys, making them equally enjoyable for users prioritizing a smooth tactile sensation.
In summary, the Huano Strawberry Latte offers a balanced auditory experience and an incredibly smooth feel, making it suitable for a range of environments. The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), however, delivers a more engaging auditory profile with its resonant and clacky sound, along with a remarkably silky typing experience due to its factory lube. While both switches aim for smoothness, they cater to different preferences in sound, making them unique choices depending on whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a subtler typing session.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Strawberry Latte linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences in terms of force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you lean towards a lighter sensation during your typing sessions and appreciate a more balanced sound that isn't too loud yet provides a satisfying keystroke, the Strawberry Latte is an excellent choice. Its 45-gram bottom out force ensures that you won't tire easily during prolonged typing or gaming sessions, making it ideal for those who enjoy quick, fluid movements. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier keystroke with a more engaging auditory feedback, the Strawberry Wine (V2) will be more to your liking. With a bottom out force of 52 grams, its clacky and resonant notes offer a vibrant and immersive typing experience that many find delightful. The impeccable factory lube job enhances the silky smoothness of each keystroke, making it perfect for users who prioritize both sound and feel. Ultimately, your decision should align with how you want your typing experience to feel and sound, paving the way for enjoyment throughout your keyboard usage.
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