Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to contemplate are the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4, both of which are linear switches. The Gateron Ink Yellow is characterized by its shorter travel distance, offering a typing experience that falls in between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. Known for its smoothness and clackiness, this switch is ideal for those seeking a balanced and polished feel while typing. 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 that complements its smooth linear action. Typists can expect a rich and satisfying typing experience with this switch. While the Ink Yellow is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Sky V4 is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater 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
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4, it is evident that they both prioritize sound profiles but do so in slightly different ways. The INK blend top housing of the Ink Yellow is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the POK material used in the Sky V4's top housing is praised for being one of the smoothest materials available, contributing to a smooth and clacky experience. While both aim to provide a satisfying sound experience, the INK blend top housing may offer a slightly sharper sound compared to the smoother sound achieved with the POK material.
In terms of bottom housings, the Ink Yellow's INK blend bottom housing mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, offering a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. In contrast, the Sky V4's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the absorbent nature of nylon that creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast highlights the difference in sound experience that can be achieved based on the bottom housing material chosen for mechanical switches.
While the top and bottom housings play a significant role in the overall sound profile and feel of a mechanical switch, the choice of material for each housing can lead to varying results. Both the Gateron Ink Yellow and Dareu Sky V4 prioritize sound profiles, but they achieve this through different materials and characteristics. Whether opting for the sharper and clacky sound of the INK blend or the smoother and more absorbent sound of the POK material, the housing materials chosen can greatly impact the typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Yellow is the heavier option while the Sky V4 is the lighter option. The Ink Yellow requires 60 grams of actuation force and 67 grams to bottom out, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 only needs 45 grams of force to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, resulting in a medium-light feel. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Ink Yellow, while individuals who enjoy a lighter touch may lean towards the Sky V4 for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch is 3.5 mm, whereas the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. However, the difference between the two switches is minimal and may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of how much depth and feedback you prefer while typing or gaming. Whether you opt for the slightly shorter travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow or the slightly longer travel distance of the Dareu Sky V4, you can expect similar results in terms of performance and feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow 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 Yellow 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 Yellow linear switch offers a pleasant and clacky typing experience, with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a deeper and thocky sound profile, offering a rich and satisfying typing experience with a low-pitched tone. Both switches cater to different sound preferences, with the Ink Yellow being more neutral and clacky while the Sky V4 delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek key travel. This switch provides a gentle typing experience in a safe middle-ground zone. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy and spring-like feedback sensation, giving keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Both switches provide unique tactile feedback, with the Ink Yellow focusing on a polished and mild typing experience, and the Sky V4 offering a bouncy and lively feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Yellow and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences. If you prefer a clacky sound with a polished and mild feel, the Ink Yellow switch is a suitable option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a thocky and low-pitched sound with a bouncy and spring-like feel, the Sky V4 switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches provide a unique typing experience that can enhance your overall mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound. If you prefer a switch with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, the Ink Yellow would be a good choice. Its smoothness and clackiness provide a pleasant typing experience between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action, the Sky V4 may be more suitable for you. The innovative use of POK material in its top housing gives it a unique sound profile that complements its rich and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in typing feel and sound when selecting between these two switches.
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