Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) vs. Aflion Thunder Shadow
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We're excited to present the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch for your consideration. The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine switch is best known for its clacky and resonant notes, offering a silky smooth typing experience with its impeccable factory lube job. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch from the emerging brand Aflion boasts a pronounced tactile bump and medium weight feel, creating a harmonious balance and a neutral sound signature. While the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine switch leans towards a high-pitched and silky feel, the Aflion Thunder Shadow switch offers an invigorating tactile experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Spring
20mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow both play a significant role in the sound profile of the switches. The Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Thunder Shadow has a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a unique sound experience, while the polycarbonate in the Thunder Shadow offers a more high-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
Both the Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Thunder Shadow utilize nylon for their bottom housing material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The use of nylon in both switches results in a similar typing experience in terms of sound, as both switches elicit a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material demonstrates how certain housing materials can lead to consistent sound profiles across different switches, even when other housing materials differ.
In terms of aesthetics and functionality, the choice of housing materials in the top and bottom housings of a switch is crucial. The top housing, whether POM or polycarbonate, can impact the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The translucency of polycarbonate in the Thunder Shadow's top housing is particularly useful for RGB lighting effects, showcasing how specific housing materials can serve both practical and visual purposes in switch design. Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Aflion Thunder Shadow highlights the importance of housing materials in creating a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, it is evident that there are differences in weight between the two. The Strawberry Wine (V2) has a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and easy typing experience. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow boasts a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial and tactile typing experience. While the actuation force of the Thunder Shadow is unknown, the heavier bottom out force suggests a firmer keystroke compared to the lighter Strawberry Wine (V2). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with lighter switches being ideal for extended typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more pronounced typing feel.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly shorter than the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within a relatively close range of travel distances, the Strawberry Wine offers a slightly quicker key press due to its shorter distance. Gamers may appreciate the faster response time of the Strawberry Wine, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Thunder Shadow. Overall, the differences in travel distance between these two switches may be subtle, but can play a significant role in determining the typing experience based on individual preferences.
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 Aflion Thunder Shadow has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Thunder Shadow for $3.91.
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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is known for its clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound profile, creating a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch offers a neutral sound signature, catering to a wider range of preferences. When it comes to feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a silky smooth typing experience, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance. In contrast, the Thunder Shadow offers an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive sensation.
Overall, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch excels in providing a unique sound experience with its clacky and resonant qualities, as well as offering a silky smooth feel for typing enthusiasts seeking a refined tactile experience. Conversely, the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch focuses on a neutral sound signature that caters to a wider audience, along with providing an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback for those who prefer a more responsive typing sensation. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made between these two exceptional options.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth typing experience with a clacky and resonant sound, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a pronounced tactile bump and a neutral sound profile, then the Aflion Thunder Shadow tactile switch would suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer and what feels most comfortable to you.
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