Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the KTT Wine Red mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, we can see that they each offer unique characteristics. The Strawberry Wine (V2) is best known for its clacky and resonant notes, paired with a silky smooth keystroke experience thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red is loved for its pillowy light feel and deep, rich sound profile. While the Strawberry Wine (V2) is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Resonant', 'Silky', and 'High-pitched', the Wine Red is categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched'. Each switch has appealing qualities that may suit different typing preferences. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the KTT Wine Red, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing, which results in a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Wine Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This distinction is important as the top housing material can greatly influence the overall sound profile of the switch, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of the two switches, another contrast emerges. The Strawberry Wine (V2) incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer properties that lead to a clear and resonant sound. This difference in bottom housing materials highlights how the choice of material can impact the typing experience and the resulting sound of the switch.
While the housing materials of the Strawberry Wine (V2) and the KTT Wine Red differ in both the top and bottom housings, it is evident that each material brings its unique qualities to the switches. The split between the POM and nylon materials in the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a balance of deeper and fuller sound from the bottom while maintaining a more muted sound from the top. In comparison, the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Wine Red provide a sharper, crisper sound profile that caters to those who prefer a more defined typing experience. Despite the differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can appeal to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch are similar but with slight differences. The Strawberry Wine (V2) has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Wine Red's 44 grams, making it a bit easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the bottom out force of the Strawberry Wine is 50 grams, whereas the Wine Red requires 55 grams to fully press down. This means that the Wine Red switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel compared to the Strawberry Wine. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Strawberry Wine may be the preferred choice. Conversely, for users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more tactile typing experience, the Wine Red switch would be more suitable. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches offer options for users based on their preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the KTT Wine Red linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster actions in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch provides a slightly deeper and more cushioned feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial press when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and desired typing experience.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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 is known for its clacky and resonant notes, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile with a higher pitch. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile, characterized by a bassy and low-pitched tone. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, but the Strawberry Wine (V2) leans towards a brighter and sharper sound, while the Wine Red delivers a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness when pressing keys. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the tactile feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch. With the Strawberry Wine (V2) offering a smooth and effortless typing experience, it can be assumed that the KTT Wine Red may also provide a comfortable typing feel, but without the added detail.
In conclusion, both the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the KTT Wine Red linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. While the Strawberry Wine (V2) excels in providing a clacky and resonant sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Wine Red stands out for its rich and bass-heavy sound profile. It's important to consider personal preferences and additional factors such as keyboard and keycap choices when selecting between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths, and users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a clacky and resonant sound profile, and a silky smooth typing feel, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, and are indifferent to typing feel descriptions, then the KTT Wine Red switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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