Zuoce Bubblegum vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Zuoce Bubblegum and the Dareu Sky V4, both of which are linear switches. The Zuoce Bubblegum, known for its captivating blend of eye-catching colorways, delivers a satisfyingly clacky typing experience that appeals to keyboard enthusiasts looking to explore new horizons in their hobby. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action, offering a rich and satisfying typing experience for users. While these general descriptions provide an overview of each switch's characteristics, diving deeper into the specific features and qualities of each switch will help you make the best decision for your keyboarding needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM+SL
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
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
The Zuoce Bubblegum utilizes a POM top housing, which provides a unique and pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side and more muted. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 features a POK top housing, known for being smooth, clacky, and exceptionally durable. While both housing materials offer their own distinct advantages, the Bubblegum's POM top housing focuses more on sound quality, while the Sky V4's POK top housing prioritizes smoothness and durability.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Bubblegum and Sky V4 feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This similarity between the two switches in terms of bottom housing material highlights the importance of nylon in creating a specific sound profile desired by many enthusiasts.
With the split between top and bottom housing materials in a switch, the qualities of each material are showcased differently. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction underscores how even subtle differences in housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users of switches like the Zuoce Bubblegum and Dareu Sky V4.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Bubblegum has a lighter touch compared to the Sky V4. The Bubblegum has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 boasts an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a slightly heavier feel for users who prefer a more substantial typing sensation. While the actuation force of the Bubblegum is lighter than that of the Sky V4, both switches offer similar results with regards to bottom out force, making them suitable choices for users looking for a comfortable typing experience with a different weight preference. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Bubblegum linear 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 fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Bubblegum being slightly shorter than the Sky V4. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Bubblegum switch, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may opt for the Sky V4. Ultimately, both switches offer similar performance in terms of travel distance, so users can expect consistent results from either option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Bubblegum has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bubblegum for $2.30.
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 Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch offers a clacky experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, conveying a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a thocky sound profile with a deep and rich quality when typing, along with a neutral sound that suits various preferences. The Sky V4 also features low-pitched tones, adding a more bass-heavy and mellow dimension to the overall typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of the switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Zuoce Bubblegum and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation. This tactile response gives the keys a lively feel, offering a sense of rebound when pressed, contributing to a dynamic typing experience for enthusiasts. Both switches offer a similar tactile feel in this regard, ensuring that users can expect a consistent level of responsiveness and satisfaction when typing with either switch.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and Dareu Sky V4 linear switch each have their unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Bubblegum switch is renowned for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Sky V4 switch stands out with its thocky sound, low-pitched tones, and equally bouncy tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a sharper or deeper sound profile, along with a lively key response, either switch can offer a delightful typing experience that suits your individual preferences. Experimenting with different switches on various keyboard setups can further customize your typing experience to your liking.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Zuoce Bubblegum linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience. If you are looking for a keyboard switch with a light bottom out force and a clacky sound profile, then the Bubblegum switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a thocky sound profile, and a deeper typing experience, then the Sky V4 switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision.
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