TTC Flame Red vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the TTC Flame Red 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 TTC Flame Red and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches present two enticing options, each with its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Flame Red switch is renowned not only for its stunning light diffuser, which enhances the visual appeal of backlit and RGB keyboards, but also for its weighty smoothness and clacky sound profile that many typists find engaging and satisfying. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 leverages innovative POK material in its top housing, delivering a deeper sound signature that pairs beautifully with its smooth linear action, thus creating a rich and rewarding typing experience. While the Flame Red switch offers a polished overall feel that many gamers and typists adore, the Sky V4 provides a thocky, low-pitched experience that can elevate the typing soundscape. Both switches are designed to enhance your keyboard experience, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and tactile feedback. 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
54g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flame Red and the Dareu Sky V4 switches, there are notable differences in the top housing materials that greatly influence their overall typing experience. The Flame Red features a nylon top housing, a classic switch material that is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily due to nylon being a softer plastic, which tends to absorb sound more effectively than harder materials. In contrast, the Sky V4 utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, a material recognized for its smoothness and durability. The POK's higher coefficient of friction compared to nylon indicates a slight difference in tactile feedback upon keypress, leading to a potentially clackier sound profile and a different overall typing sensation.
On the other hand, both the TTC Flame Red and the Dareu Sky V4 share nylon as their bottom housing material. This commonality means that regardless of the differences in their top housing, both switches benefit from the rich, muted sound profile characteristic of nylon, as well as its capacity for sound absorption. The deeper and fuller typing experience provided by the nylon bottom housing will thus create similarities in acoustic performance when compared to their respective top housings. Therefore, while the variation in top housing materials contributes significantly to the nuances in sound and feel, the shared nylon in the bottom housing ensures that both switch types offer a certain level of depth and warmth in sound.
Ultimately, the interaction between the different housing materials impacts the overall performance and typing experience of each switch. The unique qualities brought by the POK top housing of the Sky V4 create a smoother and more resilient switch, while the nylon top housing of the Flame Red provides a deeper auditory experience. However, the presence of nylon in both bottoms fosters a common ground in sound profile despite their differences. This means that while users may perceive distinct characteristics between the two switches based on their individual top housing materials, they can expect a level of consistency in the sound and feel owing to the shared nylon component in the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, both exhibit an actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a similar typing experience that's medium-light and suitable for prolonged use without causing excessive fatigue. However, the bottom out forces differ slightly, with the Flame Red at 54 grams and the Sky V4 slightly heavier at 55 grams. This means that while both switches will require the same initial force to register a keystroke, users will feel a marginally firmer resistance when bottoming out with the Dareu Sky V4. Consequently, the TTC Flame Red is marginally lighter overall, making it a better choice for those who prioritize a softer feel and longer typing sessions, whereas the Dareu Sky V4 may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial touch in their typing experiences despite only a gram difference in bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Flame Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their specifications. The Flame Red switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sky V4 features a shorter distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Flame Red provides a deeper key press, which can feel more substantial and satisfying for users who prefer a traditional typing experience. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Sky V4 may appeal more to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, allowing for faster key actuation. Consequently, the TTC Flame Red is the longer switch, offering a more pronounced tactile feel, while the Dareu Sky V4 is shorter and tailored for enhanced speed and efficiency in typing or gaming scenarios. Users can therefore choose based on their preference for depth versus responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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
The sound profile of the TTC Flame Red switch is characterized by a neutral tone, making it versatile and suitable for various settings, whether at home or in the office. This means you can use it for both casual typing and more focused work environments without being disruptive. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 offers a more rounded auditory experience, with a thocky sound signature that provides a satisfying deep "thud" upon actuation. This deeper tone enhances the typing experience, giving it an appealing richness, although it too has a neutral quality that allows it to function well in similar environments.
When it comes to the feel, the Flame Red switch presents a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable, making it accessible to a wide range of typists. It boasts a polished finish that ensures smooth key travel, resulting in minimal friction during use. On the other hand, the Sky V4 does not provide specific descriptors regarding its feel, leaving its tactile experience somewhat undefined. However, the smooth linear action associated with most linear switches generally implies a degree of seamlessness that can be expected.
In summary, while both the TTC Flame Red and Dareu Sky V4 switches offer their unique qualities, they also share common grounds. The Flame Red is appreciated for its mild yet polished typing experience combined with a versatile sound profile. The Sky V4, while delivering a richer auditory depth, maintains a level of sound neutrality suitable for various environments. The unknown aspects of the Sky V4's feel leave a certain mystery, but typists can expect a smooth action typical of linear switches. Overall, choosing between them may come down to a preference for sound richness versus an approachable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the TTC Flame Red and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches, consider the context in which you'll be using them. If you’re looking for a visually appealing option that excels in RGB lighting scenarios while providing a smooth and moderately clacky typing experience, the Flame Red switch is your best choice. Its lighter actuation force and polished feel make it suitable for long typing sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for both gaming and general use. On the other hand, if you seek a richer auditory feedback with a deeper sound profile, the Sky V4 switch will likely satisfy you. Its thocky quality enhances the typing experience, making it a great choice for avid typists who appreciate a more pronounced sound with their keystrokes, even if its bottom-out force is just slightly higher. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal preferences in both sound and feel—whether you prioritize aesthetics and a light typing experience with the Flame Reds or a thockier sound signature with the Sky V4.
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