TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch, best suited for those who appreciate subtle feedback and a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and versatile weight, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals. While the Gold Brown Pro provides a nuanced tactile bump for those who value understated tactile experiences, the Sky V3 offers a balance of comfort and precision for a wide range of typing 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, both switches feature a translucent top housing, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. The similarities in their polycarbonate top housing suggest that users can expect a similar sound experience and aesthetic appeal from both switches.
On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Gold Brown Pro features a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. In contrast, the Sky V3 also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, indicating that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches suggests a preference for a softer plastic to enhance the overall typing experience.
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Sky V3, it is clear that both switches prioritize sound quality and typing experience. While they share similar polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, their nylon bottom housings offer distinct qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience. The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials allows users to feel and hear the impact of each material when using the switches, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. The Gold Brown Pro offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Sky V3 provides a lighter actuation force, which is better for individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. In terms of actuation force, the Gold Brown Pro is heavier, while the Sky V3 is lighter. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Brown Pro leaning towards the shorter end. Gamers may appreciate the Gold Brown Pro for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may gravitate towards the Dareu Sky V3. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
The Dareu Sky V3 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 V3 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 TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is often described as thocky and low-pitched, offering a deep and satisfying sound when pressed with a subtle tone that won't disrupt those around you. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is noted for its neutral and subdued sound profile, making it a comfortable choice for quiet environments or shared spaces. Both switches fall into the category of neutral sound signature, ensuring a balanced auditory experience suitable for various typing needs.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and refined key press that minimizes friction and enhances overall typing comfort. The mild and subtle characteristics of this switch offer a gentle resistance and a light typing feel, perfect for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. In comparison, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and precision.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown Pro excels in providing a tactile experience with a subdued sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing environment, while the Sky V3 offers a smooth linear feel with a neutral sound signature suitable for diverse typing needs. Whether you choose the subtle tactility of the Gold Brown Pro or the smoothness of the Sky V3, you can expect a pleasant typing experience tailored to your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a subtle tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience, the Gold Brown Pro may be the better option for you. Its polished, silky feel and thocky, low-pitched sound profile provide a refined and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a balance of comfort and precision with a neutral sound signature, the Sky V3 may be more suitable. Its mild feel and neutral sound make it versatile for various typing preferences. Ultimately, your choice should align with your personal preferences and typing needs to enhance your overall typing experience.