TTC Brother vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch stand out as top contenders in the market. The TTC Brother is celebrated for its lightweight nature and satisfyingly crunchy sound signature, making it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 sets itself apart with its innovative use of POK material, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action that offers a luxurious typing experience. While the Brother is known for being easy-to-press and delivering a stepped tactile bump, the Sky V4 boasts a low-pitched, bouncy feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Dareu Sky V4, it is evident that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharp, high-pitched sound profile and is particularly useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Sky V4 utilizes POK material for its top housing, which offers a smooth and clacky typing experience along with exceptional durability. While both materials offer different benefits, they ultimately contribute to a clear and resonant sound profile for the switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the TTC Brother and the Dareu Sky V4 opt for nylon material. Nylon is valued for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, creating a unique typing experience for users of both switches. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches highlights the preference for this classic switch housing material due to its acoustic properties and overall typing feel.
It is interesting to note that the qualities of the housing materials for switches are split between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has more impact on the sound when a key is released. Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the TTC Brother and the Dareu Sky V4 offer unique typing experiences with a focus on sound profile, durability, and overall performance. Whether it is the sharpness of polycarbonate or the smoothness of POK, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The Brother switch has an unknown bottom out force, while the Sky V4 has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch in comparison. The difference in actuation force between the two switches can impact the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Brother clicky switch and the Sky V4 linear switch will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches provide a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Brother switch for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel might opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Sky V4 switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Brother clicky switch offers a crunchy sound signature that is distinct and satisfying, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a thocky sound that is deep and rich, offering a different auditory experience altogether. The choice between the two would depend on personal preferences for sound profiles, with the Brother catering to those who enjoy a more pronounced clicky sound and the Sky V4 appealing to those who prefer a deeper, softer tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, providing a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The tactile bump is described as stepped, offering a more subdued feedback compared to hyper-tactile switches. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is known for its bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience with a lively rebound sensation. Again, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress resistance and feedback intensity.
Considering all the available information, it is clear that the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Brother excels in providing a crunchy sound and easy-to-press feel, the Sky V4 stands out for its thocky sound and bouncy keypress feedback. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preferences for auditory and tactile experiences during typing. However, for those looking for similar results in terms of sound or feel, choosing either switch would still ensure a high-quality and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you value a lightweight and tactile typing experience with a satisfyingly crunchy sound, opt for the Brother switch. Its easy-to-press nature and stepped tactile bump make typing effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a deep and rich sound profile, the Sky V4 is the way to go. The bouncy feedback and use of POK material in its top housing offer a unique typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you desire.
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