Bsun Pine vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Pine and Dareu Sky V4 stand out as popular choices with distinct characteristics. The BSUN Pine is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing a no-nonsense typing experience favored by those who appreciate direct feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 is a linear switch that boasts a smooth action and deeper sound signature due to its innovative use of POK material in the top housing. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, with the Pine being categorized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', 'Snappy', while the Sky V4 falls under 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy'. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Dareu Sky V4, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This means that users can expect similar characteristics in terms of sound profile, with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound being produced. Additionally, both switches take advantage of the translucency of polycarbonate for RGB lighting purposes. While the Pine specifically emphasizes the stiffness of polycarbonate for a clear and resonant sound, the Sky V4 focuses on the smoothness and durability of POK material for a clacky and durable feel.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Pine and the Sky V4 utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using switches with nylon bottom housings. This means that the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the qualities of the nylon bottom housing in both switches, contributing to a duller and rounder sound profile overall.
Overall, while the top housings of the Bsun Pine and Dareu Sky V4 differ in material (polycarbonate vs. POK), their bottom housings are the same (nylon). This creates a unique combination of characteristics for each switch, with the Pine focusing on clarity and resonance in the top housing, while the Sky V4 emphasizes smoothness and durability. The use of nylon for both bottom housings ensures a consistent typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, users can expect distinct sound profiles and feels from the two switches based on the specific qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Sky V4's lighter bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that while the actuation force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches, the Pine switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Sky V4 may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding typing force and overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Sky V4 the longer travel distance of the two. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Pine tactile switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Sky V4 linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience one is looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 Bsun Pine switch is known for its clear and sharp tactile feedback, which may result in a crisp and distinct sound when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as having a thocky and low-pitched sound profile due to the unique POK material in its top housing. While the Pine switch may offer a more direct and pronounced sound, the Sky V4 switch provides a deeper and more satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by either switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Pine switch is renowned for its sharp and invigorating tactile bump, offering a snappy and responsive typing experience. This switch provides a distinct and quick bottom-out that can be felt with every keypress. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is known for its bouncy and elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively and rebounding feel when pressed. While the Pine switch offers a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Sky V4 switch provides a smoother and more fluid typing experience. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feel.
Overall, the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch excels in providing a direct and sharp tactile feedback with a potentially crisp sound, while the Sky V4 switch stands out for its deep and thocky sound profile and bouncy feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. It's important to consider individual preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best match for your needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Pine tactile switch or the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a sharp tactile bump with quick bottom-out, then the Pine switch is the way to go. Its distinct feedback and fast action cater to those who prefer a no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth linear action with a deep sound profile, the Sky V4 switch could be more up your alley. Its use of POK material in the top housing offers a unique feel that complements its rich sound signature. Consider your desired bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision between these two switches. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, so choose the one that best suits your typing preferences.
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