Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Gazzew U4T mechanical keyboard switches, we are presented with two distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts. The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is a linear switch that offers a clacky and resonant typing experience with a silky smooth feel, making each keystroke a satisfying affair. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch known for its harmonious blend of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing both a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback. While the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) caters to those seeking a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, the Gazzew U4T appeals to individuals looking for a tactile and bassy switch. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Gazzew U4T both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine creates a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively muted. In comparison, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both provide a deep sound, the Strawberry Wine may offer a slightly more muted tone compared to the U4T.
In terms of bottom housing, the Nylon bottom housing of the Strawberry Wine offers a classic switch housing material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing provides a similar rich and deep sound profile, also attributed to its softness. Both housing materials contribute to a fuller sound experience, with the materials absorbing sound to create a softer and deeper tone.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and Gazzew U4T, the impact of each housing material becomes apparent. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, with the Strawberry Wine potentially providing a slightly more muted tone compared to the U4T's richer and deeper sound. Ultimately, both switches deliver high-quality sound experiences thanks to their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch differ in terms of their weight. The Strawberry Wine (V2) has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smoother typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the U4T has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, offering a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a bit more resistance. For users looking for lighter switches to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) would be a suitable choice. However, those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more robust typing experience may lean towards the Gazzew U4T with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine (V2) may be preferred by gamers for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the U4T may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately depends on personal preference when deciding between the two.
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 U4T 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
In terms of sound, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch offers a clacky and resonant typing experience, with a high-pitched sound profile that delivers a sharp and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch presents a bassy 'thock' sound profile, featuring a deep and rich tone that accompanies a strong tactile feedback. Both switches provide satisfying sound qualities, but the Strawberry Wine leans towards a sharper and crisper sound, while the U4T offers a deeper and more substantial auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch stands out for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to an impeccable factory lube job that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump that provides a high feedback intensity, giving users a distinct and crisp tactile sensation with each keypress. While the Strawberry Wine focuses on delivering a smooth and effortless typing feel, the U4T emphasizes a pronounced tactile response for a more tactile typing experience.
Taking into consideration the subjective qualities of sound and feel for the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences to cater to different preferences. If you prefer a sharp and clacky sound with a silky smooth feel, the Strawberry Wine would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you're seeking a deep and bassy thock sound paired with a sharp tactile feedback, the U4T would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, allowing you to customize your typing experience to best suit your needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches and Gazzew U4T tactile switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a clacky and resonant sound with a smoothly silky feel, then the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and appreciate a bassy thock sound with a sharp tactile feedback, then the Gazzew U4T switches would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound profile, feel, and bottom out force that aligns best with your typing preferences and experience. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
