Keygeek Briny vs. Dareu Sky V4

Overview

When it comes to selecting the ideal linear switch for a mechanical keyboard, the Keygeek Briny and the Dareu Sky V4 both present compelling options, each catering to different user preferences. The Briny, with its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, is celebrated for its balanced sound profile that suits a variety of typing styles, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and harmonious typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out due to its innovative POK material in the top housing, which delivers a deeper sound signature and adds a richer auditory dimension to its smooth linear action. This makes the Sky V4 particularly appealing for typists who appreciate a more 'thocky' and low-pitched feedback, enhancing their overall engagement with the keyboard. While both switches offer unique advantages—one emphasizing a balanced sound and the other providing a more robust auditory experience—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Keygeek Briny Linear

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Briny and the Dareu Sky V4, it becomes evident that the two switches utilize different materials for their top housing, while they share the same material for the bottom housing. The Briny features a nylon top housing, offering a softer and more rounded sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to nylon's ability to absorb sound effectively due to its relatively softer nature, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 employs a POK top housing, which is made from polyketone. POK is known for its smoother action and durability, contributing to a "clacky" sound. Thus, while the Briny may provide a more muted and cushioned auditory experience due to the nylon's sound absorption, the Sky V4 offers a more pronounced and lively sound due to POK's properties.

Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Briny and Sky V4 utilize nylon for their bottom housings, leading to a similar impact on the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing in both models enhances the sound profile by providing that characteristic deep and full tone that users appreciate. As the material is identical, the bottom-out sound and overall feel during key presses share a common quality. This alignment in bottom housing material means that regardless of the differences in the top housings, users can expect a consistent and enjoyable typing experience when it comes to the fundamental impact of the lower half of the switches.

Ultimately, the variation in top housing materials between the Briny and the Sky V4 allows for different sound profiles while maintaining a sense of familiarity through their nylon bottom housing. Therefore, while the Briny may cater to those who prefer a more subdued and full-bodied sound, the Sky V4 serves those who enjoy a brighter and more dynamic auditory feedback. Users can choose based on their preference for either a softer, deeper sound or a sharper, more aggressive auditory experience, while still benefiting from the consistent performance offered by the nylon bottom housing in both designs.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we can observe notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Briny features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating a medium resistance that some users may appreciate for a more pronounced typing experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 offers a lighter feel with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This means that users who favor a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions may prefer the Sky V4, while those who enjoy a firmer push might lean towards the Briny. Ultimately, the Briny is the heavier option, while the Sky V4's lighter actuation force allows for a more effortless typing experience.

Travel distance

The Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch both share a travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar feel and responsiveness when pressing down on the keys of either switch. With this identical travel distance, both switches will deliver comparable tactile experiences, making them equally effective for typing and gaming tasks. Since their travel distances are the same, users can achieve consistent performance regardless of their choice between the Briny and the Sky V4, ensuring a familiar keystroke sensation with either option.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Keygeek Briny linear switch offers a balanced auditory experience that caters to a wide range of preferences, making it suitable for both casual and professional environments. It strikes a pleasant equilibrium that doesn't overpower the user nor does it fade into the background entirely. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 distinguishes itself with a thocky sound profile, characterized by a deep and rich auditory response that delivers a satisfying acoustic feedback with each keystroke. This switch provides a low-pitched sound, creating a bass-heavy and mellow tone that many typists find enjoyable. Ultimately, when it comes to sound, both switches offer unique experiences: the Briny is more neutral and versatile, while the Sky V4 ensures a more pronounced and resonant typing experience.

When considering the feel of each switch, the Keygeek Briny's characteristics are not specifically detailed, leaving an unknown aspect for potential users. The Dareu Sky V4, however, is renowned for its smooth linear action, making it ideal for those who crave seamless key presses without any tactile bump or resistance. This smoothness contributes significantly to the overall typing experience, enhancing both comfort and speed for typists. While the feel of the Briny remains undefined, the Sky V4 undoubtedly excels in providing an effortless and fluid typing sensation.

In conclusion, both the Keygeek Briny and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches present their own distinctive characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Briny boasts a balanced and versatile sound profile, whereas the Sky V4 offers a deep, thocky sound complemented by its smooth linear feel. While the feel of the Briny remains unspecified, users can expect a satisfying experience from the Sky V4 based solely on its known attributes. It ultimately comes down to personal preferences regarding sound and feel, so users may gravitate toward the switch that resonates most with their typing style.

Conclusion

In closing, when choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a slightly firmer bottom-out force with a balanced sound profile, the Briny may be your go-to choice. Its medium-weight actuation at 60 grams provides a satisfying tactile response without being overly harsh, making it suitable for both typing and gaming. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter touch with a richer auditory experience, the Sky V4 could be the better option. With a bottom-out force of 55 grams and its unique POK material, the Sky V4 delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound that many find enjoyable, complementing its smooth linear action for a more immersive typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize sound and weight or seek a more robust typing force and balanced acoustics. Whichever switch you choose, both the Briny and the Sky V4 offer their unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard journey.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Briny Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more