Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often weigh the unique characteristics and sound profiles that can greatly enhance their typing experience. The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its resonant and clacky notes, complemented by an impeccable factory lube job that results in silky smooth keystrokes. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing, making each press feel satisfying and pronounced. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch, recognized for its Ly stems, also offers a super smooth typing experience but leans into its own resonant sound profile that may appeal to users who prioritize a balanced blend of softness and responsiveness. Both switches cater to different preferences: the Strawberry Wine (V2) for those seeking a playful, clacky sensation and the Tomcat (Heavy) for those desiring a subtler yet equally smooth feel. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Y3
Stem material
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) present an interesting study in contrasts that affect sound profiles and aesthetics in keyboard design. The Strawberry Wine (V2) features a newer material for its top housing that is noted for producing a bright and resonant sound signature, resulting in pronounced clacks when typing. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by a sharper and more crisp sound. While both aim to elevate the auditory experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) leans toward a brighter tone, while the Tomcat (Heavy) supports a clearer and more defined sound profile due to the inherent stiffness of polycarbonate. Consequently, users looking for a sharper typing experience may gravitate towards the Tomcat (Heavy), while those who prefer a more resonant clack might favor the Strawberry Wine (V2).
On the bottom housing front, both the Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Tomcat (Heavy) utilize nylon. This shared choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile across both switches, as nylon is a classic material known for its sound-absorbing qualities. The softness of nylon contributes to a duller and rounder auditory experience, which, combined with the contrasting top housing materials, creates a dynamic interplay of sound. For instance, while the nylon bottom housing dampens sound, the top housing characteristics can still significantly influence the overall typing experience. Thus, even though both switches employ nylon for the bottom, their overall sound signatures can diverge significantly due to their respective top housing materials.
Ultimately, the design choices in the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) reflect differing priorities in sound and aesthetic appeal. The bright, resonant nature of the Strawberry Wine’s top housing delivers a distinct auditory feedback, appealing to those who favor an impactful typing experience. Meanwhile, the Tomcat’s polycarbonate housing offers crispness and clarity, making it suitable for users who enjoy a sharper typing sound alongside the familiar deeper notes from nylon. Although both switches share the nylon bottom housing, indicating similar richness in sound, the amalgamation of their top housing materials ensures that each switch maintains its unique character. Thus, users seeking a tailored auditory response will find distinct yet complimentary experiences between these two innovative switches.
Weight
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch present a clear contrast in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Strawberry Wine (V2) features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, positioning it as a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) requires a stronger actuation force of 55 grams and exhibits a bottom out force of 64 grams, appealing to users who favor a more substantial typing experience. This indicates that the Tomcat (Heavy) is the heavier switch, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) is the lighter option. Users looking for a more tactile and resistance-filled interaction would likely gravitate towards the Tomcat, while those aiming for comfort and minimal fatigue might prefer the Strawberry Wine (V2).
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is identical, as both switches have a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity means that users can expect comparable tactile experiences when pressing down on the keys of either switch. Whether typing or gaming, the feel and response will be alike, providing a consistent performance across both types. Ultimately, the identical travel distances ensure that both switches will deliver similar results in terms of key actuation and responsiveness.
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 Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99 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
In terms of sound, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch provides a distinct auditory experience characterized by clacky, resonant, and high-pitched qualities. Each keystroke produces a sharp and snappy sound, making it crisp and bright. This invigorating sound profile can enhance the overall typing experience, immersing users in an engaging auditory environment. On the other hand, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) also offers a resonant sound profile, specific descriptors regarding its sound quality are not detailed, leaving potential users to explore this switch's auditory characteristics through personal experience.
When it comes to feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its silky smooth typing experience, primarily attributed to an impeccable factory lube job that minimizes resistance on keystrokes. This feature allows for an effortless typing session, enhancing the enjoyment of typing for users who prioritize smoothness. The feel of the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) is not explicitly detailed; thus, its tactile feedback remains unspecified. However, they both prioritize smoothness in their operation, which can lead to similar feelings during use.
In conclusion, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offers well-defined sound qualities and a notably silky feel, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) provides a resonant sound and focuses on delivering a super smooth typing experience, though specifics remain unknown. Users seeking clarity in sound may prefer the Strawberry Wine (V2), while those interested in a smooth typing experience will find both switches appealing. This suggests that with the right setups, both switches can satisfy different preferences, while the Strawberry Wine is more quantifiable in its performance characteristics.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switches, consider your personal preferences in terms of tactile feedback and sound. If you enjoy a lighter typing experience combined with a clacky sound profile that offers a bright and resonant auditory feedback, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is an excellent choice. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 52 grams allows for quick and effortless keystrokes, making it ideal for fast typists or gamers who appreciate a smooth and silky feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel and are looking for a switch that requires a stronger actuation force, the Tomcat (Heavy) with its 64 grams of resistance will provide a firmer typing experience. This can be particularly advantageous for those who tend to bottom out heavily or want to avoid accidental presses. Overall, your choice should reflect your typing style, whether that’s the smooth and rich sound of the Strawberry Wine (V2) or the reliable sturdiness and weight of the Tomcat (Heavy).
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