Dareu Aqua vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Sky V4 are both exceptional mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aqua, a linear switch, is praised for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Sky V4, also a linear switch, stands out for its innovative use of POK material in its top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action that offers a rich typing experience. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Sky V4 both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Sky V4's POK top housing offers a smoother and clackier typing experience. However, both materials are known for their durability and strength, with polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound profile, while POK offers exceptional wear resistance and shock resistance.
Both the Aqua and the Sky V4 utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon's softer composition allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the similarities in bottom housing materials, the overall feel of each switch will be influenced by the combination of the top and bottom housing materials, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon key release.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Sky V4 offer distinct typing experiences due to their choice of housing materials. While the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, the Sky V4's POK top housing offers a smooth and durable typing experience. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we can see some key differences. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Sky V4's 45 grams, making the Aqua more sensitive to touch. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua does not provide information, while the Sky V4 has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that typing on the Sky V4 may require more force to fully press the keys compared to the Aqua. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua may be the better choice, while the Sky V4 would be suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel to their keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference based on typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option. The Aqua switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Sky V4 provides a shallower experience. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky V4, while those who enjoy a more hearty depth may opt for the Aqua. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Aqua providing a bit more travel distance compared to the Sky V4. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, providing a distinct auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is known for its deeper and more satisfying thocky sound profile, creating a rich and immersive typing sound that complements its smooth linear action. Both switches offer different sound experiences, catering to users with varying preferences. Where the Aqua leans towards a lighter and more lively sound, the Sky V4 presents a deeper and more substantial tone.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, providing a typing experience that is effortless and comfortable. The light actuation force of 37g ensures minimal finger exertion, reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively touch to typing. The difference in feel between the two switches caters to users who prefer either a light and gentle keypress or a more springy and responsive feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that appeal to different preferences among mechanical keyboard users. While the Aqua provides a chirpy and clacky sound signature with an easy-to-press feel, the Sky V4 delivers a thocky sound profile with a bouncy keypress sensation. Depending on whether you prefer a lighter touch with lively sound or a deeper tone with responsive feedback, you can choose between these two switches to enhance your typing experience. However, if you enjoy a similar sound and feel from both switches, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy a chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deeper sound profile and a smooth linear action, the Dareu Sky V4 switch with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing may be more suitable for your typing needs. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so consider how you like your typing experience to guide your choice between the two. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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