Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We're excited to present two exceptional linear mechanical keyboard switches for your consideration: the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the HMX Xinhai. The Strawberry Wine (V2) is known for its clacky and resonant notes, with a silky smooth feel thanks to its impeccable factory lube job. On the other hand, the Xinhai boasts a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, made possible by its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences - the Strawberry Wine (V2) for a clacky and high-pitched experience, and the Xinhai for a bouncy and creamy feel. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the HMX Xinhai both feature POM top housings, which create a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side. However, the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the more muted sound of the Strawberry Wine. The use of POM may result in a more pleasing sound overall, while polycarbonate may be preferred for its clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting for aesthetic purposes.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Strawberry Wine (V2) and the HMX Xinhai utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the similarities in bottom housing material, the impact of these housings on the overall typing experience may differ slightly between the two switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key.
While the housing materials used in the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the HMX Xinhai may differ, they both aim to enhance the typing experience by creating distinct sound profiles. Whether it's the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine for a more muted sound or the polycarbonate top housing of the Xinhai for a sharper and crisper sound, these switches offer unique auditory feedback. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, highlighting the importance of housing materials in optimizing the overall typing experience. Ultimately, while the specifics may vary, the goal of both switches is to provide users with a satisfying typing experience through careful selection of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch to the HMX Xinhai linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is evident that both switches fall on the lighter end of the spectrum. The Strawberry Wine (V2) has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Xinhai features an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. Both switches offer a relatively light typing experience, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. The slight difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches may result in a subtle variation in typing feel, with the Xinhai being slightly lighter than the Strawberry Wine (V2). Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Xinhai offering a marginally lighter typing experience compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2).
Travel distance
Both the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the HMX Xinhai linear switches have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of the two switches, it is important to note that both offer the same amount of distance for users to feel when pressing down on a key. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Strawberry Wine (V2) or the Xinhai switch, you can expect to experience a similar level of key travel. In terms of length, both switches offer the same travel distance, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a shorter travel distance in their linear switches.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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, both the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the HMX Xinhai switches are described as producing a clacky sound when pressed. The Strawberry Wine (V2) switch also offers a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing a sharp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch is crafted with a unique PA12 top housing for a softer acoustics profile and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. Both switches offer a unique sound experience, catering to different preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as providing a silky typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of keystrokes and minimizing resistance. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch is known for its bouncy and creamy feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Both switches provide a different tactile feel, catering to individuals who prefer either a silky smooth experience or a more lively and bouncy feel.
In conclusion, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the HMX Xinhai switches differ in their sound and feel profiles, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound with a silky smooth typing experience or a clacky sound with a bouncy, creamy feel, both switches provide excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches and HMX Xinhai linear switches, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and resonant sound profile with a silky smooth typing experience, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy feel, then the HMX Xinhai switches would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Happy typing!
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