Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We're excited to present the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, known for its clacky and resonant notes, accompanied by a silky smooth keystroke experience thanks to the impeccable factory lube job. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch stands out for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, paired with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation and a whisper-quiet sound profile. While the Strawberry Wine switch offers a high-pitched sound and a clacky feel, the U4 provides a muted, low-pitched sound with a sharp tactile feedback. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a linear or tactile typing 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
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Gazzew U4 both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing, known for creating a pleasing and deep sound that is relatively muted. In contrast, the U4 uses a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing made of "boba plastic," which also delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both materials aim for a deep sound, the POM housing of the Strawberry Wine is noted for its unique sound profile, while the Gazzew blend top housing of the U4 is known for its rich tones.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a nylon material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Similarly, the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend bottom housing, also made of "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Both bottom housings aim to create a deeper sound experience, with the nylon of the Strawberry Wine absorbing more sound to create a duller tone, while the Gazzew blend of the U4 provides a rounder sound quality.
In terms of overall construction, having different top and bottom housing materials allows for a split of qualities between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing plays a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite the nuances in their materials, both the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Gazzew U4 aim to deliver a unique and rich sound profile that enhances the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Strawberry Wine requires 50 grams, while the U4 requires 62 grams, making the U4 slightly heavier to press all the way down. The lighter actuation force of both switches allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making them ideal for work or gaming. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the U4 provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, while both switches offer similar actuation forces, the U4 may appeal more to users looking for a slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quick response times, such as gamers. However, the U4 has a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference, with the Strawberry Wine offering a slightly shorter travel distance and the U4 offering a slightly longer one.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch stands out for its clacky and resonant characteristics, offering a sharp, bright, and percussive sound profile that can elevate the typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its muted sound, providing a softer and quieter typing experience that is perfect for those seeking a more discreet sound profile. While the Strawberry Wine (V2) leans towards a higher-pitched sound, the U4 offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone that caters to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a louder, more resonant sound or a quieter, mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a silky smooth typing experience, thanks to its impeccable factory lube job that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a sharp tactile bump with high feedback intensity, offering a distinct and crisp typing feel with each keypress. Whether you prefer a silky-smooth typing experience or a more pronounced tactile feedback will determine which switch is best suited to your typing style.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch excels in delivering a clacky and resonant sound profile along with a silky smooth typing experience, ideal for those who enjoy a sharper sound and minimal resistance while typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a muted sound profile with a sharp tactile bump, providing a quieter typing experience with a prominent tactile feedback for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feel. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: If you value a light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound profile with a silky smooth typing experience, then the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and appreciate a muted, low-pitched sound profile with a sharp and intense tactile bump sensation, then the Gazzew U4 switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific features and qualities that align with your typing preferences and overall keyboard experience.
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