Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) vs. Gazzew U4Tx RGB
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, one must consider not only sound and feel but also the overall typing experience. The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches, hailed for their clacky and resonant notes, offer a uniquely enjoyable auditory feedback that enhances the tactile interaction with each keystroke. This linear switch is particularly ideal for gamers and typists who prefer a smoother, uninterrupted experience, underlined by an impeccable factory lube job that ensures a silky-smooth feel. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches present a different sensory experience with their deep "thock" sound at bottoming out and a quieter, more discreet topping out. Their sharp tactile bump offers a luxurious typing experience favored by those who appreciate a pronounced feedback with each press, making it a compelling option for typists who enjoy a tactile sensation while they type. While the Strawberry Wine (V2) excels in providing smooth, linear performance, the U4Tx RGB entices with its refined sound and tactile response. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and Gazzew U4Tx RGB both utilize unique materials for their switch housings that contribute significantly to their acoustic profiles and tactile experiences. The Strawberry Wine (V2) features a newer material for its top housing, known for providing a bright sound signature that creates resonant clacks while typing. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB employs a proprietary plastic blend for its top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This blend offers a rich and deep sound profile, characterized by its softness. While both switches display distinct sound qualities, the Strawberry Wine's bright clacks can offer a more lively typing experience compared to the U4Tx RGB's subdued, deeper tones.
When we delve into the bottom housing of both switches, a similar softness can be observed, albeit derived from different materials. The Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes nylon as its bottom housing material, giving it a classic feel and a fuller sound profile. This deeper sound is primarily due to nylon's ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder audio experience when bottoming out. Conversely, the U4Tx RGB's bottom housing also leverages the proprietary boba plastic blend, which similarly delivers a rich and deep acoustic profile. The shared quality of softness in both bottom housings implies that users of either switch can expect a similar depth to the sound when the keys are pressed, contributing to a satisfying bottom-out experience.
Ultimately, the distinction in the top housing materials between the two switches leads to varied sound profiles during usage. The Strawberry Wine's brighter top housing emphasizes the sound you hear when releasing a key, creating a clacking sound that is more pronounced than the subtler response from the U4Tx RGB's boba plastic top. However, the impact of the bottom housing's similar softness means that both switches will provide a comparable experience when it comes to the deeper sounds produced as keys are pressed down. Therefore, while users may initially perceive different auditory experiences based on the top housing, they can anticipate a satisfying resonance and depth in sound courtesy of the compatible qualities in the bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch to the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch, notable differences arise in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Strawberry Wine (V2) features an actuation force of 45 grams, which positions it as a medium-light switch, making it suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the U4Tx RGB does not have a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 65 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. This indicates that while the U4Tx RGB may require more effort to register a keystroke, the lack of clarity regarding its actuation force leaves somewhat of a gap in direct comparability. Ultimately, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is the lighter option, providing a smoother experience for those who favor less resistance, while the U4Tx RGB's higher bottom out force suggests a more substantial feel that may appeal to users seeking a heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when you press down on either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and performance when using either switch, making them suitable options for those who prioritize a consistent travel experience in their mechanical keyboards.
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 U4Tx RGB 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
The sound profile of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is characterized by its clacky and resonant tones, producing a crisp and bright auditory experience with each keystroke. The high-pitched nature of these switches provides a sharp, percussive quality that many users find satisfying, particularly when typing rapidly. In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB is noted for its deep "thock" sound upon bottoming out, balanced by the quieter return of the switch, which contributes to a more subdued yet refined typing acoustics. This combination offers a unique sound experience that provides depth while minimizing distracting noise, making it suitable for both quiet environments and shared spaces.
When it comes to feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) excels with its silky smooth actuation, allowing for effortless typing with minimal resistance. This smoothness enhances the overall experience, offering a pleasant tactile feedback that is easy on the fingers during prolonged use. The Gazzew U4Tx RGB features a sharp tactile bump, which indicates actuation and provides a noticeable feedback with each keypress. This tactile feedback creates a distinct typing experience that some users may prefer for the satisfying sensation of each keystroke, offering an engaging and luxurious interaction with the keyboard.
In conclusion, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and Gazzew U4Tx RGB switches present different sound and feel characteristics, both offer unique advantages that cater to varying preferences. The Strawberry Wine is ideal for those who appreciate a resonant, clacky sound and a smooth typing experience, whereas the U4Tx RGB appeals to users who prefer deeper sounds and tactile feedback. Choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preferences in sound dynamics and typing feel, but either option promises to elevate your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx RGB tactile switch should ultimately hinge on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a typing experience characterized by silky smoothness and enjoy the bright, clacky acoustics of a linear switch, then the Strawberry Wine (V2)—with its medium-light actuation force—would be an excellent choice. It's particularly suitable for those who favor a more immersive and vibrant auditory feedback with each keystroke, making it ideal for both casual typing and gaming. Conversely, if you're drawn to a more substantial tactile feel and appreciate a deeper "thock" sound upon bottoming out, the Gazzew U4Tx RGB with its medium-heavy 65 grams actuation force would cater to your needs. The refined sound profile and pronounced tactile bump offer a luxurious typing experience, perfect for users who value feedback in their key presses. Ultimately, consider whether you favor the light and lively essence of the Strawberry Wine or the refined depth of the U4Tx to ensure your new keyboard meets your specific typing desires.