Akko Botany vs. Dareu Sky V4

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two notable options are the Akko Botany and the Dareu Sky V4, both of which are linear switches that cater to distinctive typing preferences. The Akko Botany switch is celebrated for its crisp, lively clacky sound straight out of the box, providing a vibrant auditory feedback that many typists and gamers appreciate. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 sets itself apart with the use of innovative POK material in its top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that creates a rich and satisfying typing experience marked by a smooth linear action. While the Botany excels in delivering an engaging and lively feel, the Sky V4 offers a balanced and 'thocky' sound profile that many users find appealing for both typing and gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches can depend on what aspect of typing or gaming you prioritize, whether it's the excitement of the Botany’s clacky sound or the subdued richness of the Sky V4’s deep acoustics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.

By the numbers

Akko Botany Linear

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

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Housing materials

The Akko Botany switch utilizes a top housing made from nylon, a classic material that contributes to a fuller sound profile when typing. This softness of nylon allows it to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a deeper, rounder auditory experience that many users appreciate. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is equipped with a top housing made from POK, or polyketone, which is known for its smoothness and durability. While the POK material also provides a commendable auditory quality, it leans towards a clackier sound due to its strength and ability to resist wear. Thus, while both switches use high-quality materials, the acoustic and tactile experiences differ significantly due to the contrasting properties of nylon and POK.

The bottom housings of both the Akko Botany and Dareu Sky V4 switches are crafted from nylon, reinforcing their shared characteristics. This consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a deeper and more resonant sound profile when the switch is bottomed out. Given that the bottom housing is primarily responsible for the feel and sound when a key is pressed down completely, both switches will offer a similar plush and absorbed typing experience on that end. However, since they differ in their top housing materials, it’s the overall sound quality felt during key release that diverges between the two models, with the Sky V4 potentially providing a sharper auditory experience thanks to the properties of POK.

In summary, while both the Akko Botany and Dareu Sky V4 switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, they stand apart with their choice of top housing materials, which significantly impacts the auditory feedback and overall feel of the switches. The Botany's nylon top aims for a deeper, rounder sound, while the Sky V4's POK top offers a smoother yet clackier experience. The combination in both switches highlights how the material of each housing contributes variably to the switch's performance. Therefore, users can expect a filling sound experience from both, but with different tonal characteristics, especially noticeable during key releases.

Weight

When comparing the Akko Botany linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko Botany features a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that users who favor a more substantial typing experience may find the Sky V4 to be more suitable, as its heavier forces provide a firmer push feel. Overall, if someone is looking for a keyboard that allows for prolonged use without fatigue, the lighter Akko Botany switch would be a more appropriate choice, while the heavier Dareu Sky V4 would appeal to those who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback.

Travel distance

Both the Akko Botany linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that when you press down on a key for either switch, the distance traveled is identical. This equivalence in travel distance suggests that users can expect similar tactile feedback and actuation feel when using both switches. Since the travel distances are the same, users will experience comparable results in terms of keypress depth and response, making either switch a suitable option for those looking for a consistent linear feel in their typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Akko Botany linear switch offers a distinctively crisp and lively clacky sound that many typists may find engaging right from the start. This vibrant auditory feedback can make typing an enjoyable experience, adding a sense of character to each keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a deeper sound signature due to its innovative POK material in the top housing, resulting in a thocky quality that delivers a rich and satisfying noise with each press. The Sky V4's profiled low-pitched sound further enhances its appeal for users looking to achieve a more bass-heavy and mellow typing experience, complementing the smooth linear action. While the Botany's sound leans towards the crispier end of the spectrum, both switches cater to different auditory preferences, and the final sound experience can greatly depend on the keyboard setup, including keycap choices.

When it comes to feel, the Akko Botany switch does not have a described tactile sensation, leaving its exact feedback characteristics somewhat ambiguous. However, the Dareu Sky V4 distinguishes itself with a bouncy action, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing rhythm. This bounciness contributes to a lively and responsive feel, ensuring that users experience a pleasurable rebound after each keypress. While the Botany's feel remains uncertain, the Sky V4's springy nature provides an excellent choice for those who enjoy a more dynamic and engaging typing sensation.

In summary, the Akko Botany and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches present distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Botany's crisp clacky sound contrasts with the Sky V4's deeper, thocky tone, while the latter features a bouncy action that enhances the tactile experience of typing. Users seeking a lively auditory experience may gravitate toward the Botany, while those preferring a richer, more subdued sound and a dynamic feel might opt for the Sky V4. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference, with each switch providing a unique experience in its own right.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the Akko Botany linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it primarily depends on your personal preferences for both sound and tactile feedback. If you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a more lively, clacky sound, the Botany switch is an excellent choice, making it particularly well-suited for gaming or environments where quick response times are crucial. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deeper, more thocky sound combined with a medium-light touch that offers a bouncy feel, the Sky V4 is the way to go, ideal for those who spend significant time typing and desire a rich auditory experience. Ultimately, your decision should align with whether you prioritize a crisp, engaging auditory signature or a satisfying, robust sound complemented by a lively feedback sensation.

Mentioned in this article

Akko Botany Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more