KTT Ash Gray vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience. The KTT Ash Gray switch is a tactile switch that offers a light touch accompanied by a crisp actuation, providing a delightful blend of tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a balance between comfort and precision. While the Ash Gray is categorized as easy-to-press and mild, the Sky V3 is categorized as neutral and subdued. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. 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
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Ash Gray and the Dareu Sky V3 utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile during typing. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switch housing material.
In contrast, the Ash Gray features a nylon bottom housing, while the Sky V3 also incorporates nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound during typing. The bottom housing material significantly impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when it is pressed down.
Although both switches share similar top housing materials in polycarbonate, the difference lies in their bottom housing material. The qualities each housing material brings to the switch are split between the top and bottom, affecting the sound profile and typing experience. While the KTT Ash Gray's combination of polycarbonate and nylon provides a unique sound profile during typing, the Dareu Sky V3 offers a similar experience with its dual housing materials. Both switches showcase the importance of selecting the right housing materials to achieve desired sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Ash Gray is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 38 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ash Gray is heavier at 53 grams, while the Sky V3's bottom out force is unknown. The Ash Gray provides a medium-light typing experience while the Sky V3's force remains a mystery. In considering weight, individuals may opt for the Ash Gray for a lighter typing feel that allows for extended use, ideal for work or gaming. Conversely, those who prefer a stronger push may lean towards the Sky V3 for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique force characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, the Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sky V3 has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Ash Gray the shorter of the two switches. The difference may seem minimal, but for some, that extra 0.5 mm can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Ash Gray for its slightly quicker responsiveness, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Sky V3. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming styles.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate sound level that is suitable for various typing preferences without being overly loud or prominent. However, the Sky V3 switch also offers a subdued sound quality, which means it produces a more dampened sound when pressed, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Ash Gray switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, the Ash Gray switch is described as having a mild feel, offering a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Similarly, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is also described as having a mild feel, providing a comfortable typing experience that should be approachable to most users due to its middle-ground qualities.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. While the Ash Gray switch excels in providing a tactile response with a blend of tactile feedback, the Sky V3 switch is praised for its neutral sound signature and comfort during typing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a tactile or linear switch, as both options are designed to enhance the typing experience with their respective qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and work environment. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a light touch and crisp actuation, the Ash Gray switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch that offers a neutral sound signature and medium-light weight for a comfortable typing experience, the Sky V3 switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and it's important to choose based on what feels best for you during extended typing sessions.
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