TTC Gold Silver vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness and solid bottom-out, delivering a decisive keystroke experience with a resonant sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 sets itself apart with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound and smooth linear action for a satisfying typing experience. While the Gold Silver excels in speed, sound, and fluidity, the Sky V4 offers a rich and bouncy feel. 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
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
While both the TTC Gold Silver and the Dareu Sky V4 utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, they each offer unique qualities. The Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4's POK top housing is known for its smoothness and durability, making for a clacky and long-lasting switch. Despite both being polycarbonate, the different characteristics of each housing material will provide distinct typing experiences for users.
Moving onto the bottom housing material, both the Gold Silver and the Sky V4 opt for nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties. This means that typing on switches using nylon bottom housings will result in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastics. Despite the similarities in housing material, the unique design of each switch may offer slight variations in typing feel and sound as the nylon bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
When it comes to comparing the overall sound profile of the TTC Gold Silver and the Dareu Sky V4, it is important to consider how the combination of different housing materials affects the typing experience. While both switches boast a polycarbonate top housing, their unique characteristics provide variations in sound quality. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, emphasizing the importance of housing materials in creating a distinct typing experience. Ultimately, while the housing materials may differ slightly between the Gold Silver and the Sky V4, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying and unique typing experience.
Weight
Both the TTC Gold Silver and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that you will get a similar typing experience in terms of initial pressure needed to register a keystroke. However, the Gold Silver switch has an unknown bottom out force, while the Sky V4 has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a bit heavier than the Gold Silver. This means that the Sky V4 will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience compared to the Gold Silver switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Silver for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the heavier bottom out force of the Sky V4 for a more tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing pressure and feedback.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 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 that are popular among gamers for quicker response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. The Gold Silver with its 3.5 mm travel distance might feel slightly more abrupt, providing a faster response, while the Sky V4 with its 3.6 mm travel distance could offer a slightly deeper press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the level of responsiveness and depth desired in a mechanical keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver 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
When it comes to sound, both the TTC Gold Silver and the Dareu Sky V4 switches are described as thocky and low-pitched, providing users with a deep, rich, and satisfying typing experience. The Gold Silver adds a neutral aspect to its sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Sky V4 offers a deeper sound signature due to the innovative POK material used in its construction, enhancing the overall typing experience with a rich and satisfying tone.
In terms of feel, the Gold Silver switch offers a polished and silky typing experience, providing smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. Its mild and subtle characteristics make it approachable to most users, offering a gentle typing feel suitable for various preferences. On the contrary, the Sky V4 switch distinguishes itself with a bouncy feedback sensation, giving keys a lively and elastic feel with a spring-like rebound when pressed.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Silver and the Dareu Sky V4 switches excel in different aspects. The Gold Silver impresses with its rapid responsiveness, solid bottom-out, and smooth keystrokes, harmonized by a resonant sound signature. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out with its innovative use of POK material for a deeper sound profile and a smooth linear action, providing typists with a rich and satisfying typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of user needs, ensuring a pleasant typing experience regardless of choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, the decision ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a resonant sound signature, the TTC Gold Silver switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a smooth linear action with a deeper sound profile and innovative POK material construction, the Dareu Sky V4 switch might be more suitable. Consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel to make an informed decision that aligns with your typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that best suits your individual preferences and requirements.
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