Kailh Box White vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Kailh Box White and the Dareu Sky V4. The Box White is a clicky switch, perfect for those who enjoy maximum audio feedback while typing. With a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility, it provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing. Typists can expect a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. Each switch offers its own set of characteristics – from the Box White's high-pitched, crunchy feel to the Sky V4's low-pitched, bouncy sensation. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and Dareu Sky V4 switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, resulting in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Sky V4 features a POK top housing, which boasts exceptional durability and smoothness. The POK material contributes to the overall smooth, clacky, and durable feel of the switches. While both materials offer different characteristics, they both provide a high-quality sound and feel to the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Box White and the Sky V4 switches utilize nylon. Nylon is noted for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made with stiffer plastics. The utilization of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a satisfying typing experience with a more muted sound profile. Despite both switches featuring the same material for their bottom housing, the overall typing experience can differ based on the design and construction of the switches themselves.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes apparent that the choice of materials plays a crucial role in the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing material has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. By understanding how these materials interact with each other and with the key press, keyboard enthusiasts can choose switches that best suit their preferences for sound profile and typing feel. Whether it is the stiffer polycarbonate of the Box White or the smooth POK of the Sky V4, both switches offer unique qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch differ slightly. The Kailh Box White has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 45 grams required for the Dareu Sky V4. In terms of bottom out force, the Kailh Box White requires 60 grams, while the Dareu Sky V4 needs 55 grams. This means that the Kailh Box White is slightly heavier in both aspects. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Sky V4 would be the better option. However, both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, so users may experience similar results in terms of typing comfort and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch both have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched auditory experience, reminiscent of crunching autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, which delivers a deeper and more mellow tone compared to the Box White. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Box White focusing on sharp and crisp clicks, while the Sky V4 delivers a more satisfying and rich sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is known for its polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and seamless key travel. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like feedback and lively feel when pressed. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback, with the Box White emphasizing accented tactility through its polished design, while the Sky V4 delivers a responsive and elastic sensation.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch present unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box White offers a resonant and high-pitched clicky experience with polished key feel, the Sky V4 provides a thocky and low-pitched linear sound with a bouncy key response. Ultimately, the choice between these switches boils down to personal preference in sound and feel, ensuring that newcomers can find a mechanical keyboard switch that suits their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing a keyboard switch, consider the type of typing experience you are looking for. If you desire maximum audio feedback and a tactile typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch may be the best option for you. The "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and medium bottom out force of 60 grams offer a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and linear typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch with its POK material top housing may be more suitable for you. The deeper sound signature and bouncy feel make typing on the Sky V4 a rich and satisfying experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Box White and Sky V4 will depend on whether you prioritize audio feedback and tactility or a smooth and linear typing feel.
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