KTT Darling vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling 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 KTT Darling and Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The KTT Darling, a linear switch, is known for its chewy and substantial typing sensation, along with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. This switch delivers a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, creating a blend of tactile and auditory feedback that is both engaging and satisfying. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that complements its smooth linear action. This switch offers a rich and satisfying typing experience with a thocky feel. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that make it appealing, 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
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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 KTT Darling and Dareu Sky V4, we see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This material is known for creating sharper, higher-pitched sounds with a clear and resonant profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Sky V4 uses POK material for its top housing, known for its smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction higher than LY, the POK material contributes to the switch's overall smooth and clacky feel.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Darling and Sky V4 feature nylon in this component. Nylon is well-regarded for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound profile. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, while the Darling and Sky V4 have distinct differences in their respective top housing materials (polycarbonate for the Darling and POK for the Sky V4), they both opt for nylon in the bottom housing. This choice ensures that users will experience a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing on both switches. The differences in top housing materials may result in slight variations in sound when pressing down and releasing keys, but the overall typing experience is likely to be quite comparable between the two switches.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch are quite similar, with the Darling being slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial pressure required. However, the Darling has a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a tad lighter than the Sky V4, which has a bottom out force of 55 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Darling may be the better option. However, individuals who prefer a slightly more substantial feel while typing may find the Sky V4 to be more suitable due to its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling 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. Although the difference is minimal, the Sky V4 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Darling. Both switches fall within the shorter end of the spectrum when it comes to travel distances, making them ideal for individuals looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance - with the KTT Darling offering a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker key presses, and the Dareu Sky V4 providing a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched experience, delivering a sharp and crisp sound upon keystrokes. The resonant nature of the Darling switch adds to the overall auditory feedback, creating an engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch features a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone that complements its smooth linear action. While the Darling switch focuses on a sharper and more resonant sound, the Sky V4 provides a deeper and more mellow auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, both the Darling and the Sky V4 switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation when typing. This elasticity in the keys gives a lively feel and a rebound effect upon pressing, enhancing the overall tactile experience for typists using either switch.
In conclusion, the KTT Darling linear switch excels in providing a tactile and engaging typing sensation with its chewy and substantial feel, paired with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, offering a deeper and richer sound profile that complements its smooth linear action. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Depending on individual preferences, typists can achieve similar satisfying results with either the Darling or the Sky V4 switch based on their desired sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the typing sensation you prefer. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing experience with pronounced bounciness and a high-pitched sound profile, the Darling would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear action with a deeper sound signature and innovative POK material in the top housing, the Sky V4 would be more suited to your preference. Both switches have a medium-light bottom out force, so your decision can be based on the specific feel and sound you desire in your mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between the Darling and Sky V4 comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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