Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Dareu Sky V4 offer distinct qualities to suit different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown is a tactile switch known for its gentle bump that enhances typing without disrupting the flow, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate a subtle tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out for its linear action and deeper sound signature thanks to POK material in its top housing, providing a smooth typing experience with a rich auditory feedback. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers an easy-to-press feel and medium-high pitch, the Sky V4 is described as thocky, low-pitched, and bouncy. Deciding between these two switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Dareu Sky V4, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. While the G Pro 3.0 features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Sky V4 boasts a POK top housing known for its smooth and clacky tactile feedback. Both materials are durable, with the POK material in the Sky V4 offering exceptional wear and shock resistance compared to the polycarbonate in the G Pro 3.0. However, both switches benefit from the use of these materials to enhance their sound profiles and aesthetics, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to polycarbonate's translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Sky V4 opt for classic nylon material. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches, as nylon has the ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. The nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound, providing a different tactile experience compared to the top housing material. Despite the differences in materials used for their top housings, the similarity in utilizing nylon for the bottom housing ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel across both switches.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown and the Dareu Sky V4 may differ in their top housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience with their choice of polycarbonate and POK materials. Additionally, the utilization of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches ensures that users will experience a consistent sound profile and tactile feedback. Whether it be the sharp and resonant sound of polycarbonate in the G Pro 3.0 Brown or the smooth and clacky feel of POK in the Sky V4, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating a distinct typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch both fall into the medium weight category, making them suitable for a wide range of typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Sky V4's 45 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Brown requires 63 grams, while the Sky V4 only needs 55 grams, making the Sky V4 the lighter option for those who prefer a more effortless typing style. Both switches offer a balanced typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Brown leaning towards a heavier feel and the Sky V4 towards a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The G Pro switch offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch's shorter travel distance caters to gamers looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference - those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Sky V4, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Brown.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a medium-high pitch that provides a satisfying auditory feedback, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 is known for its thocky sound profile, offering a deep and rich sound that complements its smooth linear action. While the G Pro 3.0 Brown provides a more traditional tactile switch sound, the Sky V4 offers a unique and satisfying auditory experience that some users may prefer.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. The mild characteristics of the switch make it approachable to most users. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. This unique feel can add a sense of fun and energy to typing sessions.
Considering all available information, users can expect a more traditional tactile switch experience with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown, featuring a medium-high pitch sound and easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 offers a more unique and innovative typing experience with its thocky sound profile and bouncy feel. Both switches have their own advantages and appeal to different preferences, so choosing between them will ultimately depend on individual typing preferences and priorities in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a subtle tactile sensation with a medium bottom-out force and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear action with a lower bottom-out force and a deeper sound signature, the Sky V4 could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing experience and desired sound and feel.
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