Durock Dolphin vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Durock Dolphin and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Dolphin and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stand out as popular choices, each offering unique characteristics for different preferences. The Durock Dolphins are linear switches renowned for their silent operation, making them ideal for a quiet office environment or any workspace where noise levels are a concern. With a medium-heavy actuation force of 62g, they provide a substantial feel that combines precision with a satisfying press, appealing to those who prefer a switch with a bit more resistance. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches boast a clacky and resonant sound profile, adding flair to every keystroke. Furthermore, the impeccable factory lube job on these switches ensures a silky smooth typing experience. While the Dolphins are categorized as 'Polished', 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', the Strawberry Wine (V2) switches are described as 'Clacky', 'Resonant', 'Silky', 'High-pitched'. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to determine the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Dolphin and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), one noticeable difference is in their top housing materials. The Dolphin utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness and clarity. In contrast, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted sound. While the Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound with RGB lighting capabilities, the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing offers a unique sound profile on the deeper end of the spectrum.
On the other hand, both switches share a nylon bottom housing material. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, whether you are typing on the Durock Dolphin or the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), you can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel due to their shared nylon bottom housing. The bottom housing material has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a consistent typing experience for users.
Overall, the choice between the Durock Dolphin and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profiles. The Dolphin's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, catering to users looking for a unique typing experience. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing that ensures a consistent and fuller sound profile, regardless of the top housing material chosen. Ultimately, users can choose between the switches based on their desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Dolphin linear switch and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that they both offer different experiences. The Dolphin switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it extremely light, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Dolphin requires 62 grams to fully depress, which is considered medium, compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2) that requires 50 grams, making it a lighter option. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dolphin switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Dolphin linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users who prioritize faster response times. However, the Dolphin has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Strawberry Wine, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Dolphin has an MSRP of $6.87 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dolphin for $5.41.
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.
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 Durock Dolphin linear switch offers a muted and low-pitched typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch delivers a clacky and resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched tone, providing a more immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Dolphin switch would be ideal for those seeking a softer and more subdued typing sound, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would cater to individuals looking for a sharper and more vibrant typing acoustics.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Dolphin switch boasts a polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing feel that enhances overall typing comfort and minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize a premium typing experience with their respective polished and silky textures, ensuring a satisfying feel with every keystroke.
In conclusion, the Durock Dolphin and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switches each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dolphin excels in providing a muted and low-pitched typing sound with a polished feel, great for those who value a quieter and smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch delivers a clacky and resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched tone, coupled with a silky smooth feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more vibrant and slick typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but rest assured, both options promise a premium typing experience with their distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Dolphin linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you require a quieter typing experience, especially in an office setting, the Dolphin switches with their muted and low-pitched sound profile may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force for a more substantial typing feel, the Dolphin switches are a great option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more resonant and clacky typing sound and a lighter actuation force, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches with their clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound profile may be more to your liking. Furthermore, if you prioritize a silky smooth typing experience, the factory lubed Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer an exceptionally smooth feel. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force.
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