Gateron Ink Red vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note that both are linear switches, offering smooth typing experiences. The Gateron Ink Red is ideal for those with a lighter typing style, thanks to its lower actuation force. Known for its satisfyingly smooth feel and crispy, clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds are effortless to type on and fall under categories such as 'Neutral', 'Silky', 'Chirpy', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature to complement its smooth linear action, providing a rich and satisfying typing experience. Categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', the Sky V4 offers a different typing experience compared to the Ink Red. Ultimately, when choosing between these two switches, considering your typing style and preferences is crucial; 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
60g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and the Dareu Sky V4, we see that the INK blend top housing of the Ink Red provides a relatively high-pitched, clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the POK material used in the Sky V4's top housing offers a smooth and durable experience with its low coefficient of friction and high wear resistance. While the Ink Red provides a sharp and thin sound, the Sky V4 offers a smoother and clackier typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the INK blend used in the Gateron Ink Red continues to offer a high-pitched, clacky sound profile. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Dareu Sky V4 provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This creates a rounder and duller sound compared to the sharper sound of the Ink Red's bottom housing.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Red and the Dareu Sky V4 feature different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they offer distinct typing experiences. The Ink Red emphasizes a sharp, thin, and clacky sound profile, while the Sky V4 focuses on smoothness, durability, and a deeper, fuller sound. Whether you prefer a sharper or smoother typing experience, both switches provide unique qualities that enhance the overall feel and sound of typing on a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch both have a similar actuation force of 45 grams, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ink Red requires 60 grams while the Sky V4 requires 55 grams, making the Sky V4 the lighter of the two switches. Those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Ink Red for its slightly heavier bottom out force. In terms of weight, the lighter actuation force of both switches allows for longer typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue, making them both great options for those who prioritize comfort during extended computer use. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, with the Sky V4 being slightly shorter than the Ink Red. The shorter travel distance of the Sky V4 may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Ink Red may provide a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of keypress feedback desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches offer different auditory experiences. The Gateron Ink Red provides a crisp and clacky sound profile that is somewhat neutral with a chirpy characteristic, adding a unique touch to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 boasts a deeper thocky sound signature thanks to the POK material in its top housing, also having a neutral profile but with a low-pitched tone that offers a rich and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches provide pleasant sound profiles, but the Sky V4 leans towards a deeper and more bass-heavy tone compared to the Ink Red.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Red switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel and minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This switch falls into the mild category, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively rebound when pressed. While the Ink Red focuses on smoothness and refinement, the Sky V4 emphasizes a more dynamic and responsive feel with its bouncy characteristic.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Red and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both provide satisfying typing experiences in their own right. The Ink Red is better suited for those looking for a smoother and polished typing feel with a crisp and clacky sound, while the Sky V4 caters to individuals seeking a deeper and more dynamic typing experience with a thocky and bouncy sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can deliver a rewarding typing experience on a compatible keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch with its 60-gram bottom out force would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action that offers a rich and satisfying typing experience, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch with its 55-gram bottom out force would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing style and sound preferences to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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