Gateron CJ vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The CJ is celebrated for its high-pitched clacks and incredibly smooth push feel, making it a standout choice for those seeking a chirpy and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and a bouncy feel that adds richness to the typing experience. Both switches are categorized as neutral and thocky, but the CJ is considered low-pitched while the Sky V4 is more on the bouncy side. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Sky V4, it is evident that both switches prioritize creating a satisfying sound profile. The CJ's INK blend top housing offers a thin and higher-pitched sound, described as clacky, while the Sky V4's POK top housing provides a smooth and clacky sound thanks to its high durability and shock resistance. While the CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, the Sky V4's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition which absorbs more sound. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their unique housing materials.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the materials used for their top and bottom housings. The CJ features a blend of INK for its top housing and POM for its bottom housing, while the Sky V4 utilizes POK for both top and bottom housings. This distinction impacts the overall sound and feel of each switch, with the CJ likely offering a combination of the pointed clacky sound from the top housing and the deeper muted sound from the bottom housing. Meanwhile, the Sky V4 would provide a consistent smooth and clacky sound profile throughout due to the uniform use of POK material in both housings.
Ultimately, both the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Sky V4 prioritize creating a unique sound profile through their housing materials, albeit in slightly different ways. The CJ stands out with its combination of INK and POM materials, offering a blend of high-pitched clacky sounds and deeper muted tones. On the other hand, the Sky V4 opts for the consistency of POK material in both top and bottom housings, resulting in a smooth and durable switch with a clacky sound profile. Despite these variations, both switches deliver on their goal of enhancing the typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it becomes apparent that the CJ has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Sky V4. Additionally, the CJ requires a bottom out force of 60 grams, whereas the Sky V4 needs 55 grams. Both switches fall into the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, with the Sky V4 leaning towards the lighter side. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky V4 would be the superior choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel, the CJ would provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron CJ linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Gateron CJ has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Dareu Sky V4. This means that the Gateron CJ will provide a bit more key travel before bottoming out compared to the Dareu Sky V4. Gamers who prefer a longer travel distance may find the Gateron CJ more suitable, as it offers a more traditional key press feel. On the other hand, those looking for a quicker response time may prefer the slightly shorter travel distance of the Dareu Sky V4. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Gateron CJ providing a bit more depth and the Dareu Sky V4 offering a quicker key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is best described as having a chirpy and higher-pitched clack, giving it a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, providing a rich and satisfying typing experience with its smooth linear action. Depending on your preference, the CJ offers a more distinct and chirpy sound, while the Sky V4 delivers a deep and thocky tone that adds to the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CJ linear switch provides a smooth push feel that is impossibly smooth, offering a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. The CJ switch offers a gentle typing experience in a safe, middle-ground zone, while the Sky V4 switch gives a more dynamic and responsive feel due to its bouncy nature.
Overall, both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences with their own distinct qualities. The CJ provides a chirpy and higher-pitched sound with a smooth and mild typing feel, while the Sky V4 brings a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy and lively typing experience. Depending on individual preference for sound and feel, both switches deliver satisfying results that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring a pleasant and personalized mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CJ linear switch or the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a unique and slightly higher-pitched sound with a smooth push feel, then the CJ might be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, a deeper and thocky sound with a rich typing experience, and a bouncy feel for some added bounce back when typing, then the Sky V4 could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics and it ultimately depends on what you prioritize in your typing experience.
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