Gateron Jupiter Brown vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Brown and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Dareu Sky V4 stand out as popular options with distinct characteristics. The Jupiter Brown is a tactile switch that offers a blend of tradition and innovation, providing a classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight. On the other hand, the Sky V4 is a linear switch that boasts a unique POK material in its top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action. While the Jupiter Brown excels in reliability and aesthetic appeal, the Sky V4 offers a rich and satisfying typing experience with its innovative design. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Brown and Dareu Sky V4 both have top housings made of different materials, with the Jupiter Brown featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Sky V4 boasts a POK top housing. The Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4's POK material offers a smoother feel and exceptional durability, making it a top choice for users looking for a clacky and long-lasting switch. While both materials offer unique qualities, users can expect similar results in terms of housing sturdiness and overall typing experience.
In contrast, both switches feature bottom housings made of nylon material. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that some users may prefer for a more muted typing experience. As a result, the bottom housing of both the Jupiter Brown and Sky V4 contributes to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch, enhancing the typing experience for users who enjoy a softer and more cushioned sensation when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Brown and Dareu Sky V4 ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and clearer sound, the Sky V4's POK material provides a smoother and more durable typing experience. However, with both switches utilizing nylon bottom housings, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with the Jupiter Brown or a smoother feel with the Sky V4, both switches offer reliable housing materials that enhance the quality of your typing sessions.
Weight
The Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch have noticeable differences in actuation force and bottom out force. The Jupiter Brown has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Sky V4 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This makes the Sky V4 lighter overall compared to the Jupiter Brown. The actuation force of the Jupiter Brown provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the lighter actuation force of the Sky V4 allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the preference for a lighter or heavier touch, ensuring that users can choose the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is clear that the Jupiter Brown has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Sky V4's 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Jupiter Brown providing a slightly deeper press than the Sky V4. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky V4, while those who appreciate a more profound key press may opt for the Jupiter Brown. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Jupiter Brown switch offers a classic and traditional typing experience. While the specific sound descriptor is unknown, it is likely to produce a clear and satisfying click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch is known for its deep and thocky sound profile, providing a rich and immersive typing experience. The low-pitched sound of the Sky V4 adds a luxurious touch to every key press, enhancing the overall auditory experience of using this switch.
When it comes to feel, the Jupiter Brown switch is characterized by a mild and polished typing sensation. The switch offers a gentle keystroke experience that is approachable to most users, while the polished finish ensures smooth and refined key travel. Additionally, the stepped tactile feedback of the Jupiter Browns adds a subtle tactile bump for each keystroke. In contrast, the Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with each key press. This bouncy feel gives users a sense of rebound and liveliness when typing, creating an engaging and responsive typing experience.
Considering all available information, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Jupiter Brown provides a classic and traditional typing experience with a mild and polished feel, while the Sky V4 delivers a deep and thocky sound profile with a bouncy and responsive feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Jupiter Brown offering a more traditional typing experience and the Sky V4 providing a unique and rich sound and feel. Overall, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch, tailored to their individual preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a classic keystroke feel and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a smooth linear action and a deeper sound signature, the Sky V4 could be the ideal option. Whether you prioritize a rich typing experience or a bouncy feedback sensation, both switches offer unique characteristics worth exploring. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you as you embark on your mechanical keyboard journey.