HMX Deep Navy vs. Dareu Sky V4

Overview

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy and the Dareu Sky V4, both linear mechanical keyboard switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Deep Navy is celebrated for its rich and sharp sound profile, made possible by its full nylon construction and Ly stem, providing users with a silky smooth keystroke experience ideal for those who prioritize the tactile sensation of typing. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 employs innovative POK material in its top housing, resulting in a deeper, thocky sound signature that enhances the smooth linear action, making it perfect for typists who appreciate a balanced auditory feedback along with a satisfying typing feel. While both switches excel in delivering a linear experience, their sound profiles and construction materials offer distinct advantages depending on user preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Deep Navy Linear

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Dareu Sky V4, notable differences emerge primarily in the top housing composition. The Deep Navy utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is recognized for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder acoustic signature. This characteristic plays a significant role in the overall sound experience when typing, contributing to a sound that is softer and less abrasive than that produced by switches made from harder materials.

In contrast, the Sky V4 employs POK (polyketone) for its top housing. This material is not only smoother, with a coefficient of friction of 0.04, but is also considerably more durable, boasting wear resistance that is 14 times stronger than POM and shock resistance greater than nylon. While the Sky V4's POK housing produces a different acoustic result—described as smooth and clacky—the inherent qualities of polyketone contribute to a quicker and more responsive feel that some may find preferable for typing or gaming. Thus, while both switches use nylon for their bottom housings, the differing properties of the top housings lead to distinct auditory and tactile experiences.

Despite the differences in top housing materials, the bottom housings of both the Deep Navy and the Sky V4 are made from nylon. This results in a notable similarity between the two switches in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. Since the bottom housing primarily influences the experience of bottoming out when a key is pressed, users can expect a similar firmness and auditory feedback in that aspect across both switches. Therefore, while the top housing materials contribute their unique characteristics, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that users will achieve a comparable typing experience regarding depth and fullness during key presses.

Weight

The HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different user preferences. The Deep Navy boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for those who favor a softer typing experience and seek to type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Sky V4 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel that may appeal to users who prefer a firmer key press. While both switches have a relatively close range in actuation forces, the Deep Navy is the lighter option, which enhances comfort during long use, whereas the Sky V4 offers more resistance for those who prefer tactile feedback. Overall, if a user seeks a lighter touch, the Deep Navy is the preferable choice, whereas the Sky V4 caters to those who appreciate a bit more heft in their keystrokes.

Travel distance

Both the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch feature an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect comparable results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness when using either switch. As such, the tactile experience will be the same, allowing for a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the HMX Deep Navy and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches, the Deep Navy switch is known for its rich and sharp sound characteristics, thanks to its full nylon construction. This design produces a clear and pleasant sound when typing, making for an engaging auditory experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 switch offers a deeper sound signature described as thocky, which provides a satisfying acoustic feedback reminiscent of a soft "thud" with each keystroke. The low-pitched nature of the Sky V4 adds a bass-heavy, mellow tone that contributes to a more robust sound profile compared to the sharper notes of the Deep Navy, making each switch environment unique depending on the keyboard and keycap choices.

In terms of feel, the Deep Navy switch does not have a specified tactile quality, leaving its tactile feedback characteristic somewhat unknown. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch is characterized by its bouncy feel, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that can enhance the typing experience. This liveliness can offer a noticeable rebound effect for those who enjoy a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard, a quality that may not be matched by the Deep Navy, potentially leading to different typing experiences.

In conclusion, both switches present distinct auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy offers a sharp and rich auditory profile, while the Sky V4's thocky, low-pitched sound, paired with its bouncy feel, creates a uniquely satisfying typing experience. If you prefer a clear auditory feedback or a lively feel, both options will deliver pleasurable results, albeit in their own distinctive ways. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX Deep Navy and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter actuation force and appreciate a richly sharp sound profile, the Deep Navy will likely enhance your typing experience with its silky smooth keystrokes and a sound that’s both pleasant and engaging. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who spends long hours typing and desires less finger fatigue along with a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier keypress and a deeper, thocky sound with a bouncy feel, the Sky V4 will provide a more substantial and responsive experience that many typists find enjoyable. Its low-pitched thock and elastic feedback make it ideal for both casual use and intense typing sessions, offering a well-rounded experience. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your typing style, sound preferences, and whether you prioritize a lighter or more textured keystroke.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more