KTT Hyacinth vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the KTT Hyacinth and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Hyacinth and Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Hyacinth, a linear switch, stands out for its 3.5mm travel distance which aims to provide a balance between tactile feedback, auditory experience, and user comfort. With a single-stage elongated spring, it offers a consistent force curve. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4, also a linear switch, utilizes POK material in its top housing to create a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action for a rich typing experience. While the Hyacinth is categorized as silky, subtle, neutral, the Sky V4 is categorized as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, bouncy. Each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles, offering unique benefits. However, let's delve 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
56g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Hyacinth and the Dareu Sky V4 both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, but they differ in their bottom housing material with the Hyacinth using nylon and the Sky V4 using POK. Polycarbonate in the top housing of the Hyacinth creates a sharp and resonant sound profile, especially beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the POK material in the top housing of the Sky V4 contributes to smooth, clacky switches with exceptional durability. Both materials bring unique qualities to the switches, with polycarbonate emphasizing clarity and resonance, while POK focuses on smoothness and durability.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Hyacinth and the Sky V4 opt for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience on switches utilizing nylon bottom housings. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the overall feel and sound of the switches can still differ based on other factors such as the stem and spring design.
While the housing materials of the KTT Hyacinth and the Dareu Sky V4 may have similarities in their top or bottom housing, the unique properties of polycarbonate and POK bring distinct characteristics to each switch. The combination of materials used in the top and bottom housings of these switches plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel experienced when typing. Whether aiming for a sharper and clearer sound profile with polycarbonate or a smoother and clacky typing experience with POK, both switches offer a different tactile feel and sound profile based on their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch are quite similar. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Hyacinth requires 56 grams while the Sky V4 requires 55 grams, with the Hyacinth being slightly heavier. This difference may not be significant for some users, but for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky V4 might be the preferable option. Ultimately, the weight of a switch is a personal preference, with lighter switches being better suited for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial feel during typing. Each user should consider their own preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Hyacinth linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard. Gamers may prefer the Hyacinth for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Sky V4 may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more depth and a less abrupt feeling when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Hyacinth has an MSRP of $4.03 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hyacinth for $3.75.
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 KTT Hyacinth linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and satisfying typing experience. The choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more neutral sound or a richer, deeper sound when typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Hyacinth is characterized by its silky and subtle typing experience, providing smooth key presses with gentle resistance. This switch is designed to minimize resistance, creating a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel. In contrast, the Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that adds liveliness to your typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a smoother, subtle feel or a more bouncy and responsive feel, you can choose between these two switches.
Overall, both the KTT Hyacinth linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you prioritize a neutral sound profile and a silky, subtle typing experience, the Hyacinth switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, thocky sound and a bouncy, responsive feel, the Sky V4 switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a unique 3.5mm travel distance design to prevent hard bottoming-out, then the KTT Hyacinth switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a similar bottom out force but with a deeper sound profile due to POK material in the top housing, then the Dareu Sky V4 switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should depend on whether you prioritize the smooth and subtle typing experience offered by the Hyacinth, or the bouncy and thocky feel provided by the Sky V4. Make your choice based on your personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
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