Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it really comes down to personal preference. The Strawberry Wine is beloved for its clacky and resonant notes, along with its silky smooth keystrokes thanks to a superb factory lube job. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium level of tactility, light touch, and a neutral sound signature, making it a "Goldilocks" option for those looking for a balanced typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. However, let's dig deeper beyond these generalities so you can determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro lies in their top housing materials. While the Strawberry Wine (V2) uses a POM top housing, which creates a more muted and deeper sound profile, the Violet Gold Pro features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly affect the overall typing experience for users, depending on their preference for sound and tactile feedback.
On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon is known for its softer properties that absorb more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This commonality in bottom housing material indicates that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch, despite the differences in their top housing materials. This shared housing material may provide a level of consistency in the typing experience for users who are looking for a specific sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. The POM and polycarbonate top housings offer distinct sound profiles, with the former providing a more muted and deeper sound while the latter delivers a sharper and crisper sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound. Whether one prefers a softer, rounder sound or a sharper, more resonant sound will ultimately determine which switch is the better fit for individual users.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we see that both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. However, the Strawberry Wine has a bottom out force of 50 grams, giving it a slightly heavier feel when fully depressed, while the bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro is unknown. In terms of weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Strawberry Wine for longer typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may appreciate the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Strawberry Wine compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro. Ultimately, the actuation force similarities ensure that users will get a similar initial key press experience with both switches.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Strawberry Wine has a shorter 3.4 mm travel distance compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro may provide a more substantial and deliberate key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Strawberry Wine being slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press depth 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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 unique and distinct experience with its clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound profile. This creates a sharp and snappy typing sound that adds a touch of flair to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a more neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option suitable for various environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard used and the keycaps attached.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch stands out for its silky smooth typing experience, thanks to the impeccable factory lube job that enhances the overall smoothness and minimizes resistance when pressing keys. On the contrary, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a stepped tactile feedback, providing a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. This gives users a different tactile experience compared to the seamless feel of a silky switch.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, newcomers to mechanical keyboards may prefer the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch for its unique clacky and resonant sound, paired with a silky smooth typing feel. However, those looking for a more balanced and versatile option may opt for the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch with its neutral sound signature and stepped tactile feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, and selecting between the two would depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: If you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy a clacky and resonant sound profile with an impeccable factory lube job for a silky smooth typing experience, then the Strawberry Wine (V2) is the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound signature and a medium tactility that offers a balanced typing experience with a fairly light touch, then the Violet Gold Pro is your best choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force. Choose wisely based on your typing preferences and needs.
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