Outemu Cream Blue vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer unique experiences based on their switch type. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch, providing a satisfying audible click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is a linear switch, offering a smoother and quieter typing experience. While the Cream Blue offers a tactile and audible feedback that some users prefer for typing accuracy, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is designed for those who prioritize a smooth and quiet typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), we can see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, making typing on these switches a more satisfying and quieter experience. While both switches share this bottom housing material, the Cream Blue features a nylon top housing, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a POM top housing. The POM material in the Strawberry Wine (V2) contributes to a unique and pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to the Cream Blue.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Outemu Cream Blue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offer a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing. This consistency in bottom housing material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of switches made with nylon. However, the distinct qualities brought by the Cream Blue's nylon top housing and the Strawberry Wine (V2)'s POM top housing contribute to subtle variations in sound and feel. The Cream Blue's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) creates a more muted and unique sound profile.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is crucial to recognize the split in qualities between the two parts of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, providing a more immersive typing experience. Conversely, the top housing's impact is more pronounced when releasing a key, influencing the sound profile at the moment of letting go. By understanding the distinct contributions of each housing material, users can appreciate the nuances in sound and feel that differentiate the Outemu Cream Blue and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Blue is heavier with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. The Cream Blue offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions and gaming. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on the weight preference of the user, with the Cream Blue delivering a more robust typing experience and the Strawberry Wine (V2) offering a lighter touch for extended use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a heavier or lighter actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch with a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. For those who prefer a more traditional travel distance, the Cream Blue would be the better choice. However, if you're looking for a faster response time, the Strawberry Wine (V2) may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of the travel distance that feels most comfortable and natural to you. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider your own preferences before making a decision.
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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch both offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Blue switch is known for its unique clicky sound without any specific descriptors provided. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as clacky, resonant, and high-pitched, offering a sharp, snappy sound profile that can be crisp and bright. This makes the Strawberry Wine switch more immersive in terms of auditory experience. When it comes to feel, the Cream Blue switch has no specific descriptors provided, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a unique clicky sound profile, the Cream Blue may be the way to go, while if you are looking for a switch with a clacky and resonant sound accompanied by a silky smooth typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be a great choice. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference and the overall typing experience you are aiming for.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, consider your preference in bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cream Blue with 65 grams may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Strawberry Wine (V2) with 50 grams is a great option. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky and resonant sound profile with impeccable factory lube for a smooth typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for feel, sound, and bottom out force when choosing between these two mechanical keyboard switches.
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