Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Jwick Taro stand out as excellent choices with distinct characteristics. The Strawberry Wine (V2) is a linear switch known for its resonant and clacky notes, offering a silky smooth typing experience with impeccable factory lube job. On the other hand, the Taro is a tactile switch recognized for its cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium level of tactility and crisp clacks. While the Strawberry Wine (V2) presents a high-pitched and clacky feel, the Taro offers a buttery and stepped sensation. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Jwick Taro provide interesting contrasts in sound profiles. While the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference is primarily due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound compared to POM. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a unique visual appeal to the Taro.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Jwick Taro utilize nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances typing experiences. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that users can expect a consistent sound profile between the two switches, despite their differences in top housing material. The use of nylon in the bottom housing also ensures a comfortable typing experience with a satisfying sound feedback.
When considering the impact of different housing materials on the overall switch experience, it is important to note that the top and bottom housing materials each play a role in the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that users of the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) and the Jwick Taro can expect a nuanced typing experience that combines the unique qualities of POM or polycarbonate in the top housing with the consistent depth and fullness provided by nylon in the bottom housing.
Weight
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force for the Taro switch is unknown, but for those who like a heavier push when typing, this would be the preferred option. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals' preferences for lighter or heavier keystrokes. Ultimately, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch is heavier, giving users the option to choose based on their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the Jwick Taro tactile switch with a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Strawberry Wine (V2) will provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for its speed. On the other hand, the Taro tactile switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may feel more substantial and provide a different typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 is known for its clacky and resonant characteristics, producing sharp and snappy sounds with a higher-pitched profile, providing an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various users and purposes. The sound produced by both switches will vary based on factors such as the keyboard, keycaps, and overall setup.
When it comes to feel, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness. In comparison, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the Taro switch has a stepped tactile feel, providing a mild bump sensation with some pre-travel and post-travel, adding a unique tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch excels in producing clacky and resonant sounds while offering a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile and a buttery keystroke feel with a stepped tactile sensation. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches offer distinctive qualities that can cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch or the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter switch with a clacky and resonant sound, along with a silky smooth feel, then the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a neutral sound profile and a buttery and stepped feel, then the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or actuation force in your keyboard switches.
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