Durock Black Lotus vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Black Lotus and the Dareu Sky V4, both linear switches offer a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Black Lotus stands out for its silky smooth feel and precise actuation, with a 55g weight that strikes a balance between being substantive yet not too heavy. On the other hand, the Sky V4 showcases its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that complements its smooth linear action. While the Black Lotus is categorized as 'Silky', 'Buttery', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Sky V4 is 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, one may lean towards the Black Lotus for its typing pleasure and in-switch lighting, or opt for the Sky V4 for its rich sound signature and satisfying 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
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 Durock Black Lotus and the Dareu Sky V4, one notable difference is the top housing material. The Black Lotus features a Modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, giving it a unique and premium feel. On the other hand, the Sky V4 boasts a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability. While both materials offer quality performance, the POK material in the Sky V4 stands out with its impressive wear resistance and shock resistance, making it a top choice for users looking for a smooth and clacky typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches share the use of nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to its softer nature compared to harder plastics, which allows it to absorb more sound and produce a rounder sound when typing. With both the Black Lotus and the Sky V4 featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar sound experience that enhances the overall typing feel of the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Durock Black Lotus and the Dareu Sky V4 differ in material, they both contribute to the overall typing experience in unique ways. The impact of each housing material can be felt differently when pressing down on the switch or letting go of a key. With the Black Lotus offering a premium feel with its Modified PC & UPE Blend top housing and nylon bottom housing, and the Sky V4 providing smoothness and durability with its POK top housing and nylon bottom housing, users have the option to choose a switch based on their preference for sound profile, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Black Lotus is the heavier option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Sky V4 is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Black Lotus provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher forces, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Sky V4 offers a lighter typing experience, suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue may be a concern. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the Black Lotus offering a medium-heavy feel and the Sky V4 providing a medium-light touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is preferred by the user.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Sky V4 a popular choice for gaming. However, those who appreciate a more substantial keypress may prefer the Black Lotus with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Black Lotus switch offers a unique experience with its light column providing in-switch lighting, although the specific sound characteristics are not mentioned. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying typing experience. Depending on the user's preference for sound, the Black Lotus may offer a more subtle sound while the Sky V4 provides a more pronounced and pleasing auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Durock Black Lotus switch is praised for its silky and buttery typing experience, characterized by smoothness and minimal resistance. This switch also boasts a mild and polished feel, delivering a refined and effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, giving users a lively and spring-like feedback when typing. While the Black Lotus emphasizes smoothness and ease of typing, the Sky V4 provides a more dynamic and responsive feel that some users may prefer for a more tactile experience.
Overall, if a user is looking for a linear switch with a smooth and buttery feel, the Durock Black Lotus would be an excellent choice. For those who enjoy a deeper and more tactile sound with a bouncy and responsive feel, the Dareu Sky V4 switch would be the ideal option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users seeking either a more subtle or pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, users can expect a premium typing experience with either switch, tailored to their specific sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, opt for the Black Lotus. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, the Sky V4 is the way to go. Additionally, choose the Black Lotus for a silky smooth feel, unparalleled precision, and in-switch lighting features. Alternatively, select the Sky V4 for a deeper sound signature, smooth linear action, and a bouncy feedback sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing preferences and priorities, so weigh these factors carefully before making a decision on which switch to go for.
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