Everglide Aqua King (V3) vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Aqua King (V3) is praised for its frictionless feel, akin to effortlessly gliding across freshly resurfaced ice. This switch is categorized as 'Subdued', 'Creamy', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Polished', making it a great choice for those seeking a smooth and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action that provides a rich and satisfying typing feel. Categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', the Sky V4 offers a unique typing experience with a pleasant bounce. 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Sky V4, it's evident that they both prioritize durability and sound profile enhancement. The Aqua King (V3) utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitch sound profile. The POK material used in the Sky V4's top housing, on the other hand, offers smooth and clacky switches with exceptional durability. While both materials excel in their own ways, the Aqua King (V3) may have an advantage in terms of creating a more resonant sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Aqua King (V3) and the Sky V4 take different approaches. The Aqua King (V3) continues to use polycarbonate for its bottom housing, enhancing the overall sound profile and durability of the switch. On the other hand, the Sky V4 adopts nylon for its bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Aqua King (V3) potentially offering a crisper sound and feel, while the Sky V4 offers a more muffled and rounder sound.
Overall, the choice between the Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Sky V4 will depend on the specific sound profile and typing experience that the user is seeking. While both switches prioritize durability, the Aqua King (V3) with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings may offer a sharper and more resonant sound, suitable for those who prefer a crisper typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4's combination of POK and nylon housings may cater to those looking for a smoother and clacky sound profile with a deeper tone. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we can see that the Aqua King has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams compared to the Sky V4's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua King requires 62 grams while the Sky V4 only needs 55 grams. This makes the Sky V4 a lighter option overall, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch and potentially longer typing sessions. On the other hand, the Aqua King provides a slightly more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches fall within the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches both offer a smooth linear typing experience, but they differ in travel distance. The Aqua King (V3) has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sky V4 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Aqua King (V3) offers a slightly longer key press compared to the Sky V4. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly deeper key press, the Aqua King (V3) would be the better option, while if you prefer a slightly quicker response time, the Sky V4 would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a quality typing experience, and the difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to some users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) has an MSRP of $7.18 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua King (V3) for $5.44.
The Dareu Sky V4 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 V4 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
The Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch is praised for its frictionless and creamy typing feel, allowing for effortless key presses akin to gliding on ice. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch stands out with its bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback when keys are pressed. When it comes to sound, the Aqua King (V3) offers a subdued sound profile, while the Sky V4 produces a deep and satisfying thocky sound signature. However, both switches offer a smooth linear action, making them suitable for various typing preferences. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aqua King (V3) for its silky feel or the Sky V4 for its deep sound, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Everglide Aqua King (V3) linear switch or the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, you should opt for the Aqua King if you prioritize a frictionless and smooth typing experience reminiscent of ice skating on freshly resurfaced ice. The Aqua King also offers a subdued sound profile, making it suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, if you value a deeper sound signature and the innovative use of POK material in the top housing for a rich and satisfying typing experience, the Dareu Sky V4 may be the better choice for you. Additionally, the Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that some typists may prefer. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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