Gateron CJ vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Sky V3 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gateron CJ is praised for its higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is well-known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience for a wide range of users. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron CJ and Dareu Sky V3 both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, with the CJ utilizing an INK blend top housing and a POM bottom housing, while the Sky V3 opts for a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The CJ's INK blend top housing is known for producing a thin and higher-pitched sound with a clacky feel, while the POM bottom housing creates a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky V3's polycarbonate top housing results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound with clear resonance, while the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile.
One key difference between the two housing materials is their stiffness, with the polycarbonate in the Sky V3 being relatively stiffer compared to the softer nylon used in the bottom housing. This difference in stiffness contributes to the overall sound profile of the switches, with the stiffer polycarbonate creating a crisper sound profile and the softer nylon absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound. Additionally, the CJ's INK blend top housing provides a relatively high-pitched sound that is not too sharp, while the POM bottom housing adds depth to the overall sound profile with its more muted tone.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron CJ and Dareu Sky V3 offer unique sound profiles due to their distinct housing materials. While the CJ produces a clacky and deep sound with its INK blend top and POM bottom housing, the Sky V3 provides a sharper and fuller sound with its polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as well as aesthetic considerations if RGB lighting is a factor to be taken into account.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the CJ requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sky V3's lighter 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the CJ is 60 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky V3 is unknown. This means that the CJ switch provides a more consistent typing experience with a slightly heavier feel throughout the keystroke, while the Sky V3 may offer a lighter initial press but does not have a specified bottom out force for comparison. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Sky V3, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the CJ with its higher actuation and bottom out force. In general, the CJ provides a balanced medium force, while the Sky V3 may offer a lighter feel, but further information is needed to make a direct comparison in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when either of these switches are pressed down on a key, they will travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experience with both switches. The equal travel distance of 4mm ensures that both switches offer consistency in keypresses and actuation. Therefore, whether you choose the Gateron CJ or the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you can be confident that you will receive a consistent typing experience with a travel distance of 4mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
The Dareu Sky V3 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 V3 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy and high-pitched clacks, providing a unique and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, making it a versatile choice for various typing preferences. Depending on personal preference and setup, the CJ switches will deliver a more whimsical and playful sound, while the Sky V3 switches will offer a more understated and refined typing sound.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron CJ and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that the typing feel of both switches falls into a safe middle-ground zone, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience for most users. Whether you prefer a smoother push feel like the CJ or a medium-light weight feel like the Sky V3, you can expect a consistent and comfortable typing experience with either switch.
Overall, when comparing the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the CJ switch provides a more chirpy and high-pitched sound with an impossibly smooth push feel, the Sky V3 switch offers a neutral and subdued sound with a medium-light weight typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches are highly regarded within the mechanical keyboard community for their distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a unique and smooth typing experience with a higher-pitched sound, the CJ may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature with a medium-light weight for a balanced typing feel, the Sky V3 could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you as you type. As a final point, remember to also consider factors such as bottom out force and overall typing experience when choosing between these two switches.
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