Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, one can notice significant differences in their characteristics. The Ink Box Pink is celebrated for its smooth and light typing feel, coupled with a higher-pitched clack that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and a satisfying typing experience. While the Ink Box Pink is described as 'clacky' and 'high-pitched', the Sky V4 is labeled as 'thocky' and 'low-pitched'. Both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Dareu Sky V4, one noticeable difference is the material used for the top housing. The Ink Box Pink utilizes Gateron's proprietary INK blend, known for its relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky V4 features a POK top housing which is praised for its smoothness and durability. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, the POK material in the Sky V4 seems to prioritize durability and smoothness over the distinctive sound profile of the INK blend.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The Ink Box Pink retains its INK blend bottom housing, which complements the top housing by contributing to the clacky sound profile. In contrast, the Sky V4's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound to the switch. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller sound compared to the sharper sound of the INK blend. This variation in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches.
Considering the impact of the housing materials in both switches, it's clear that each material has its own strengths and characteristics. While the INK blend in the Ink Box Pink may offer a more distinct and clacky sound profile, the POK material in the Sky V4 prioritizes smoothness and durability. Whether you prefer a sharper, clacky sound or a smoother, more durable experience, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you desire. Despite their differences, both switches strive to provide a satisfying typing experience through the unique qualities of their housing materials.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch. The Ink Box Pink requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, while the Sky V4 needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out. This means that the Ink Box Pink provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly stronger push feel, while the Sky V4 offers a lighter touch for smoother and quicker keystrokes. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range in terms of weight, making them suitable for different preferences based on typing style and desired tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier feel when typing.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch both have a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance indicates that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when using either switch. Overall, both switches offer a similar tactile feel in terms of travel distance, providing users with reliable and predictable typing feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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 Box Pink linear switch is known for its clacky and high-pitched nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound that may appeal to those who enjoy a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory feedback that complements its smooth linear action. Depending on personal preference, users may find the higher-pitched sound of the Ink Box Pink more pleasing, while others may prefer the bass-heavy tones of the Sky V4 for a more satisfying typing experience.
As for feel, the Gateron Ink Box Pink switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This enhanced smoothness may result in minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. This bouncy nature may appeal to typists who enjoy a more responsive and dynamic typing experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ink Box Pink provides a clacky, high-pitched sound with a silky and polished feel, the Sky V4 offers a thocky, low-pitched sound with a bouncy typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and typing feel. If similar results are desired, users can expect a smoother and more audible typing experience with the Ink Box Pink, while the Sky V4 may offer a more tactile and responsive keystroke.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly lighter typing experience with a higher-pitched clack sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action with a top housing made of POK material, the Sky V4 could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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