TTC Gold Brown vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 offer distinct qualities to consider. The Gold Brown switch is admired for its balanced feel, featuring a slight tactile bump and moderate weightiness, while also providing a soft sound profile that falls between loud and silent. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is renowned for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a comfortable typing experience that caters to both enthusiasts and professionals. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them appealing choices for different preferences, but to truly determine the best switch for you, it's essential to delve deeper into their specific features and capabilities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 share many similarities, as both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both keyboards have a polycarbonate top housing, the TTC Gold Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dareu Sky V3's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 provide a unique typing experience based on their housing materials. The Gold Brown's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offers a mix of sharp, clear sound when pressing down on a key and a fuller, deeper sound when releasing it. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3's consistent use of polycarbonate housing throughout results in a more uniform and consistent sound profile. However, the differences in bottom housing materials between the two keyboards may result in a slight variation in sound and feel when typing on each.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience. Those looking for a keyboard with a mix of sharp and deep sound profiles may prefer the Gold Brown with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more consistent and uniform sound may lean towards the Dareu Sky V3's all-polycarbonate housing. Both keyboards offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, providing users with a variety of options to consider when selecting the right keyboard for their needs.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Gold Brown has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Sky V3's lighter 40 grams. This means that the Gold Brown will require more force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Brown also has a higher force of 63 grams, while the Sky V3's bottom out force is unknown. This indicates that the Gold Brown will provide a more substantial typing experience, with a slightly heavier feel compared to the Sky V3. When considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Sky V3 for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a heavier push may opt for the Gold Brown for a more solid typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. Despite having the same travel distance, the Gold Brown offers a tactile feedback while the Sky V3 provides a smooth linear feel. So, depending on personal preference for tactile or linear switches, users can choose between the two options without having to compromise on the travel distance of the keys. Overall, whether you prefer a tactile or linear feel, both switches offer the same travel distance for a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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, both the TTC Gold Brown and Dareu Sky V3 switches are categorized as neutral, meaning they have a moderate sound profile suitable for a variety of typing environments. However, the Sky V3 is noted for its slightly subdued sound, offering a more subtle auditory experience compared to the Gold Brown. This difference may be more noticeable in quieter settings. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard casing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both switches are described as providing a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable for most users. The Gold Brown is further characterized as "buttery," implying a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. It also offers an accented tactile feedback, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor too subtle. On the other hand, the Sky V3 is solely labeled as mild, suggesting a comfortable and balanced typing feel without any additional tactile features. Additionally, the Gold Brown is noted for its polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and a refined typing experience.
Overall, while both the TTC Gold Brown and Dareu Sky V3 switches share similarities in their neutral sound profiles and mild typing experiences, they differ in subtle nuances such as sound subtlety and tactile feedback. If you enjoy a balanced and slightly subdued sound with a buttery and accented typing feel, the Gold Brown may be more to your preference. On the other hand, if you prefer a strictly mild typing experience without additional tactile features, the Sky V3 could be the better choice. Ultimately, personal preference and intended use will dictate which switch is the most suitable for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you value a balanced typing experience with a moderate weightiness and soft sound, the Gold Brown switch would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature and a medium-light weight switch that offers comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 would be the better choice. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences and needs for an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.
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