TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Sky V4. The Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch that provides a subtle and nuanced feedback with its gentle tactile bump, allowing typists to stay focused on their tasks without being distracted by loud keystrokes. On the other hand, the Sky V4 is a linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a deeper sound signature, thanks to its innovative use of POK material in the top housing. While the Gold Brown Pro is polished, thocky, and low-pitched, the Sky V4 is also thocky and low-pitched but adds a bouncy element to the mix. Both switches have neutral characteristics, making them suitable for various 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Sky V4, we see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, especially useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Sky V4's POK top housing boasts exceptional smoothness and durability, with wear resistance surpassing POM and shock resistance surpassing Nylon and POM. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, the specific qualities of each material offer slightly different sound profiles and structural benefits.
Regarding the bottom housing material, both the Gold Brown Pro and the Sky V4 feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics to create a duller and rounder sound profile. By utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, both switches aim to enhance the overall sound experience for the user. Despite both switches using the same material for their bottom housings, the specific design and construction of each switch may still result in a subtle difference in sound and feel when typing on them.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Gold Brown Pro and the Sky V4 results in switches that aim to provide a unique sound and typing experience for users. While both switches utilize similar materials for their housing components, the specific qualities of polycarbonate and nylon bring about distinct sound profiles and structural benefits to each switch. Whether you prefer the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both the Gold Brown Pro and the Sky V4 offer a quality typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Gold Brown Pro has an unknown bottom out force, while the Sky V4 has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that the Gold Brown Pro may provide a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for prolonged use, while the Sky V4 offers a slightly heavier push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Gold Brown Pro being slightly longer than the Sky V4. For those who prioritize faster response times, the Sky V4 may be the preferred choice due to its slightly shorter travel distance. However, if you prefer a more substantial key press and deeper feel, the Gold Brown Pro with its slightly longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of travel distance, providing a balance between responsiveness and key press depth.
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 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, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch are described as having a thocky and neutral sound profile. This indicates that both switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, with a moderate actuation force requirement. However, the Gold Brown Pro is noted for its low-pitched sound, while the Sky V4 offers a slightly higher pitch with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to personal preference and the overall sound you prefer in your typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gold Brown Pro is characterized by its polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped qualities, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle and subtle tactile bump. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 is noted for its bouncy feedback, providing a spring-like and elastic sensation that gives a lively feel with rebound when pressed. While the Gold Brown Pro focuses on delivering a nuanced and understated typing experience, the Sky V4 emphasizes a more dynamic and responsive feel during key presses.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Brown Pro excels in providing a subtle and polished typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, ideal for those seeking a refined and understated tactile feedback. In contrast, the Sky V4 offers a bouncy and responsive feel with a slightly higher-pitched sound, perfect for typists who enjoy a more dynamic and lively typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback with a subdued sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro would be ideal for you. This switch allows you to stay focused on your typing tasks with minimal distraction. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth linear action with a deeper sound signature, the Sky V4 switch, with its innovative POK material, offers a rich and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you prefer a gentle tactile bump or a bouncy, spring-like feedback sensation, as well as your preference for sound profiles. Choose wisely to enhance your typing comfort and productivity.
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