Gateron Aliaz vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and Dareu Sky V3 offer distinct experiences for users. The Aliaz switch is a tactile option, perfect for those who value a satisfying typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and silent design, making it ideal for quiet environments like the office. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a balance between comfort and precision that appeals to a wide range of typing preferences. While the Aliaz provides a more pronounced typing feedback, the Sky V3 offers a smoother and quieter 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
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and Dareu Sky V3 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which results in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 opts for a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper tone of polycarbonate.
The different housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and Dareu Sky V3 offer unique tactile experiences. The top housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, influences the sound profile when pressing down on the switch. The bottom housing, featuring either polycarbonate or nylon, affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The material composition of each housing plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, shaping the sound and feedback with each keystroke.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and Dareu Sky V3 showcase how different housing materials can impact the acoustics and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, the Sky V3 distinguishes itself with a nylon bottom housing, providing a more muted and rounded sound compared to the crisper tones of the Aliaz. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel. If you enjoy a sharper sound profile, the Aliaz may be more to your liking, while the Sky V3 offers a deeper and fuller sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is clear that the Aliaz has a heavier touch compared to the Sky V3. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Sky V3 has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of unknown grams, indicating a lighter touch. This lighter touch may be more appealing to those who prefer a lighter key press for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Their travel distances are identical, so users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and overall typing experience. Both switches offer a tactile or linear feel, respectively, while providing a consistent travel distance for users to enjoy.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 Gateron Aliaz switches are known for their muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches, making them ideal for quiet environments like offices. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches offer a neutral sound signature with a subdued quality, producing a dampened sound when pressed. While the Aliaz switches prioritize minimizing noise, the Sky V3 switches strike a balance between actuation force and sound profile, catering to a wider range of typing preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switches are praised for their silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction. These switches provide a substantial weight to each keystroke, enhancing the tactile feedback without sacrificing comfort. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switches are described as offering a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort in typing, catering to enthusiasts and professionals seeking a satisfying keystroke experience.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz and Dareu Sky V3 switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz switches excel in providing a quiet and substantial typing experience with their muted sound and silky feel, making them suitable for those who value tactile feedback in a quiet environment. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switches offer a neutral sound profile with a mild typing experience, catering to a wider range of typing preferences while maintaining a level of comfort and precision. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aliaz or Sky V3 switches, you can expect a satisfying typing experience tailored to your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the environment you'll be using the keyboard in. If you prefer a quiet typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and tactile feedback, the Aliaz switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile, medium-light weight, and a gentle typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the setting in which you'll be using the keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
