TTC Gold Brown vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, there are distinct qualities that make each switch stand out. The Gold Brown is praised for its balanced feel, slight bump, moderate weightiness, and rounded sound profile that is soft yet not completely silent. On the other hand, the Sky V4 sets itself apart with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that complements its smooth linear action for a rich typing experience. While the Gold Brown is described as 'Buttery' and 'Accented', the Sky V4 is categorized as 'Thocky' and 'Bouncy'. 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
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 V4 differ in some key characteristics. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Sky V4 boasts a POK top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while POK offers a smooth and clacky sound with exceptional durability. On the other hand, both switches have nylon bottom housings, which provide a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics.
Despite the differences in top housing materials, both the Gold Brown and the Sky V4 offer unique advantages. The Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the POK material in the Sky V4 contributes to a smoother typing experience with added durability. Additionally, both switches' nylon bottom housings enhance the overall sound profile by providing a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Overall, while the top housing materials vary, the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent sound quality.
In terms of typing experience, the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of a switch. With the Gold Brown, the polycarbonate top housing will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing will contribute to the overall sound when bottoming out a key. Similarly, the POK top housing in the Sky V4 will offer a smooth and clacky sound when typing, while the nylon bottom housing will enhance the depth and fullness of the sound. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch results in unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, the actuation force of the Gold Brown is heavier at 55 grams compared to the Sky V4's lighter 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Gold Brown is also heavier at 63 grams compared to the Sky V4's lighter 55 grams. This means that the Gold Brown offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Sky V4 provides a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light force range, providing a balance between durability and comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dareu Sky V4 for quicker response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may find the 4 mm travel distance of the TTC Gold Brown more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 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 TTC Gold Brown switch provides a balanced and softer sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving users a deeper and richer auditory experience. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Gold Brown being more neutral and the Sky V4 offering a more distinctive and bass-heavy tone.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience, striking a middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. It also provides a polished finish for smooth key travel. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch gives a bouncy feel with spring-like feedback, offering a lively sensation when typing. Again, both switches provide unique tactile experiences, with the Gold Brown focusing on a gentle and uniform typing sensation, while the Sky V4 offers a more elastic and rebounding feel.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Brown provides a balanced and softer sound with a mild and buttery typing experience, the Sky V4 offers a deeper and richer sound with a bouncy and lively feel when typing. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Gold Brown being more neutral and approachable, and the Sky V4 being more distinct and elastic in its feedback. Regardless of the choice between the two, users are likely to enjoy a quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the TTC Gold Brown if you prefer a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness, a slight bump, and a softer sound profile. This switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, opt for the Dareu Sky V4 if you appreciate a switch with innovative materials and a deeper sound signature. This linear switch provides a smooth typing action and a bouncy feel, offering a rich and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize a tactile typing feel or a linear typing experience.
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