HMX Gravel vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choices can be quite personal, and the HMX Gravel and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches each offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and a refined typing feel, delivering a medium-light actuation force that allows for a responsive typing experience with just the right amount of effort, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize a seamless flow. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 stands out with its neutral sound signature and balanced weight, appealing to a wide range of users by offering comfort and precision in every keystroke. While both switches are designed for linear feedback, the Gravel emphasizes smoothness, whereas the Sky V3 leans towards a more versatile performance tailored to various typing demands. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Gravel and the Dareu Sky V3 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, leading to a remarkably similar auditory experience. Polycarbonate is known for its rigidity and translucence, characteristics that lend themselves to producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This similarity means that users can expect a clear and resonant sound, amplified further when the switches are illuminated with RGB lighting. The aesthetic advantages of using polycarbonate also contribute to the appeal of both switches; their clear housings allow for a visually striking effect when paired with LED lighting, enhancing the overall look of a keyboard setup.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Gravel and the Sky V3 employ nylon, a material that offers a contrasting sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon's softer characteristics lead to a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more vibrations and creating a rounder tonal quality. This distinction in materials affects how the switches feel and sound during operation; the nylon bottom housing dampens the sound produced on bottoming out, while the polycarbonate top housing accentuates the sound when the key is released. Thus, although both switches share the same materials for their respective housings, their composite nature results in a balanced sound profile that nets a satisfying keyboard experience.
In summary, while the HMX Gravel and the Dareu Sky V3 employ similar materials—polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom—they showcase both complementary and contrasting characteristics that enhance user experience. The alignment of sound profiles due to the polycarbonate top contributes to their crisp auditory signature, while the nylon bottom ensures a softer, more rounded bottom-out sound. This harmony between the materials enables both switches to deliver a consistent sound and feel that will appeal to a broad audience looking for tactile satisfaction in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we observe notable differences in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force of the Sky V3 remains unknown. The Gravel switch features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which categorizes it as a light switch overall. In contrast, the Sky V3 has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it a preferable option for those who seek a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, without knowledge of the bottom out force for the Sky V3, we cannot make a direct comparison in that regard, though it is essential to note that it may feel different depending on that unknown factor. While both switches cater to users who favor lighter switches, the HMX Gravel provides a more defined bottom out experience due to its specified force, whereas the Dareu Sky V3’s feel at the bottom remains a mystery. Ultimately, users seeking a more substantial typing experience may find the Gravel switch more satisfying, while those who prefer less resistance may gravitate towards the Sky V3.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, there is a clear distinction. The Gravel features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sky V3 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Gravel provides a quicker response time, which could be beneficial for gamers seeking rapid key presses, as it allows for a more responsive experience. Conversely, the Sky V3’s longer travel distance may be more appealing to users who prefer a hearty depth in their keystrokes and favor the traditional feel of a 4.0 mm switch. Ultimately, those who choose the Gravel will enjoy a more responsive keystroke, while those who opt for the Sky V3 will appreciate a more pronounced key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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
The HMX Gravel linear switch is recognized for its exceptional smoothness, providing a silent typing experience that is subtly refined. While the specific auditory characteristics of the Gravel are not provided, it can be inferred that its smooth operation likely results in a quieter sound profile when pressed, appealing to those who prefer a tranquil typing atmosphere. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 features a neutral sound signature, making it versatile for various environments. Additionally, it has a subdued nature, producing a dampened sound that is not overly pronounced. This combination ensures that the Sky V3 can accommodate a wide range of settings, whether in a home office or a public workspace, without being disruptive.
Regarding the feel, the Gravel switch offers a smooth and responsive typing experience, although further detailed characteristics are not specified. Meanwhile, the Sky V3 is characterized by its mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience. This mildness makes the switch approachable for most users, as it balances comfort and precise actuation without being overly aggressive. While the exact nature of the Gravel's tactile feedback is not defined, its noted smoothness may give it a competitive edge in providing an enhanced typing flow, making it particularly appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize fluid keystrokes.
In conclusion, the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch both cater to users seeking a medium-light actuation force, although their sound profiles differ, with the Gravel likely being quieter and the Sky V3 designed for versatility in different environments. The Gravel's smoothness offers a refined feel ideal for effortless typing, while the Sky V3’s mild feedback ensures comfort and accessibility. Though each switch has its own unique qualities, both are designed to provide a satisfying experience, making them suitable choices for newcomers to mechanical keyboards. Users can expect similar peaceful typing experiences, especially when considering factors such as board and keycap choice, which significantly influence the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when selecting between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your specific typing needs and preferences. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and responsive typing experience with a light actuation force, the Gravel switch stands out as an excellent choice. This switch is particularly well-suited for those who type quickly and seek a comfortable, almost effortless touch, making it ideal for gaming or heavy typing sessions where speed is essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced approach that caters to both comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 might be more your style. Its neutral sound profile and mild feel make it versatile for various environments—whether you're at work needing a quieter switch for meetings or at home for casual use. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you engage with your keyboard daily, ensuring that you feel satisfied with whichever switch enhances your mechanical typing experience best.
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