Gateron Ink Black V2 vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Black V2 and Dareu Sky V4 both stand out as popular linear options. The Gateron Ink Black V2 is praised for its smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a classic choice for those seeking a linear switch with a satisfying feel. 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 signature that enhances the smooth linear action for a more immersive typing experience. While the Ink Black V2 is characterized as low-pitched, bassy, chirpy, and polished, the Sky V4 is described as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Black V2 and the Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The INK blend used in the top housing of the Ink Black V2 provides a pointed and clacky sound profile, while the POK material in the Sky V4 top housing offers smoothness and durability. In contrast, the bottom housing of the Ink Black V2 also features the INK blend, reinforcing the high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Sky V4 creates a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite utilizing different materials, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their housing materials. The INK blend in the Gateron Ink Black V2 contributes to a unique sound profile that is characterized as clacky, while the POK material in the Dareu Sky V4 prioritizes smoothness and durability. Furthermore, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the Sky V4 offers a rounder sound profile compared to the sharper sound of the INK blend in the Gateron Ink Black V2.
In summary, the choice of housing material in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience. While the Gateron Ink Black V2 emphasizes a clacky sound profile with its INK blend, the Dareu Sky V4 focuses on smoothness and durability with its POK material. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through the unique qualities of their respective housing materials. Whether it be a sharper or rounder sound, the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining which switch is more suitable for individual preferences. The Ink Black V2 has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, resulting in a medium-light feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Sky V4, as it allows for extended typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ink Black V2 for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with lighter options better suited for long typing sessions and heavier options for those seeking a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm. In this case, the Dareu Sky V4 has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron Ink Black V2. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the Dareu Sky V4 due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gateron Ink Black V2 with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, but ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch is known for its low-pitched, bassy, and sometimes chirpy sound profile, providing a mellow and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound, creating a deep and rich tone that resonates with each key press. While the Ink Black V2 leans towards a more bass-heavy sound, the Sky V4 provides a deeper and softer sound when compared.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is characterized as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that offers a lively and responsive feel when typing. The subtle differences in feel between the two switches cater to different preferences, with the Ink Black V2 focused on a refined and smooth typing experience, while the Sky V4 emphasizes a more dynamic and energetic feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Black V2 provides a smooth downstroke and rich clack sound, paired with a mild and polished typing feel, making it a classic choice for those looking for a balanced and approachable switch. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out with its deeper sound signature and bouncy feel, offering a more unique and animated typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can achieve similar satisfying results with both switches, each providing a different typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch or the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it's important to weigh certain factors. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, the Ink Black V2 may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a thocky sound profile, along with a bouncy feel while typing, the Sky V4 might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences when it comes to typing experience, sound, and feel. Make sure to consider these factors carefully before making your final decision on which switch to go for.
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