Durock Blue Lotus vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it's easy to see the distinct characteristics that set each apart. The Blue Lotus stands out for its tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, thanks to its slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm. This makes it a popular choice for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feel while typing. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch offers a smooth linear action and a deeper sound signature, provided by the innovative use of POK material in its top housing. This results in a rich and satisfying typing experience for users. Both switches have their unique qualities that may cater to different preferences, but ultimately, the best choice depends on individual typing preferences and needs. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock Blue Lotus and the Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switches. The Blue Lotus's modified PC & UPE Blend top housing provides a premium, unique feel, while the Sky V4's POK top housing is known for being smooth, clacky, and durable. Although they are made of different materials, both housing types contribute to a smooth typing experience, with the Blue Lotus offering a more premium feel and the Sky V4 providing excellent durability and shock resistance.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the Blue Lotus and the Sky V4 make use of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite the similar housing material, the overall typing experience may differ slightly between the two switches due to other factors such as stem material and spring weight. However, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a more satisfying sound profile during typing.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Blue Lotus and Sky V4 differ, the qualities each material brings are evenly split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the Blue Lotus emphasizing a premium feel and the Sky V4 focusing on durability and smoothness. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with a distinct sound profile thanks to their carefully selected housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch differ in weight, with the Blue Lotus being the heavier option. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a medium-light feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming, the Sky V4 may be the better choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Blue Lotus would be the ideal option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is 3.7 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, making them suitable for users looking for a more responsive typing experience. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to most users, but those who are particularly sensitive to key feel may prefer the Blue Lotus for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience, with the Dareu Sky V4 having a slightly shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue 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 Blue 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 Blue Lotus switch offers a deep and rich bassy tone during key presses, creating a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch provides a thocky sound profile, with a low-pitched and neutral characteristic that offers a pleasant typing sound, suitable for various environments. Both switches exhibit unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience depending on the user's sound preferences, keyboard setup, and keycap selection.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus switch is highlighted by its accented tactile feedback, snappy responsiveness, and stepped tactile sensation, providing a medium level of tactility that is engaging and responsive. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, giving keys a lively and responsive feel. The combination of these tactile characteristics in each switch enhances typing precision and comfort, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying typing experience based on their preference for tactile feedback and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Blue Lotus switch excels in providing a deep bassy sound profile and an accented tactile feel, the Sky V4 switch offers a thocky sound signature and a bouncy keypress sensation. Ultimately, both switches deliver a high level of performance and satisfaction, ensuring that users will achieve a premium typing experience with either switch choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a snappy feel, the Blue Lotus may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy feel, the Sky V4 could be the ideal option. Consider factors such as sound profile, feel, and overall typing experience to determine which switch best suits your needs. Whichever switch you choose, both the Blue Lotus and Sky V4 offer unique features that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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