HMX KD200 vs. Dareu Sky V4

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, personal preference and typing experience are key factors in choosing the right one for you. The HMX KD200 is renowned for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, delivering a pronounced auditory feedback that many typists find enjoyable. This switch is favored for those who appreciate the crisp, sharp sounds that accompany their keystrokes, adding a satisfying layer of engagement during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 offers a different auditory and tactile experience; it utilizes innovative POK material in its top housing to achieve a deeper sound signature. This switch is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', providing typists with a smooth linear action and a rich, satisfying bounciness that many users love. While both switches are linear and cater to those looking for a quieter operation compared to tactile or clicky options, their distinct sound profiles and build create unique typing experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX KD200 Linear

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the Dareu Sky V4 switches, notable differences emerge regarding their top housings. The KD200 utilizes nylon, a classic choice known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer texture. This quality allows nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, contributing to a more subdued and rounded auditory experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 employs a POK material, renowned for its smoothness and durability. With a lower coefficient of friction than other common materials and exceptional wear resistance, the POK top housing creates a clacky sound profile that contrasts with the softer tones produced by nylon. Thus, while both switches have unique auditory characteristics stemming from their top housing choices, the KD200 leans towards warmth and depth, while the Sky V4 emphasizes clarity and brightness.

On the other hand, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, leading to a shared auditory experience in their overall sound profile. As nylon is consistently recognized for its ability to absorb sound and create a fuller soundscape, both the KD200 and Sky V4 offer similar tactile and acoustic feedback when keys are bottomed out. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that although their top housings differ significantly, the experience of typing on both switches retains that characteristic deeper sound profile. The bottom housing's influence on the feel and sound when bottoming out ensures that users of either switch can anticipate a consistent auditory feedback, regardless of the differences in their top housing materials.

Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch defines the overall typing experience. The impact of each material is split accordingly; the top housing qualities influence the sound produced upon releasing a key, while the bottom housing's properties affect the bottom-out sound and feel. For the KD200 and Sky V4 switches, it's clear that while their top housing materials provide distinct sound profiles, the shared nylon bottom housing brings mutual depth and resonance to their typing experience. Thus, both switches, despite their differences, achieve an engaging and satisfying interaction, appealing to users seeking specific auditory qualities in their mechanical switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we see some similarities and differences. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a lightweight feel that allows users to type comfortably over extended periods, making them suitable for work and gaming alike. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the KD200 measures 50 grams, while the Sky V4 has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This denotes that while both switches share a light actuation, the KD200 offers a marginally less forceful bottoming out experience compared to the Sky V4. For those who enjoy a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the Sky V4 might be the preferred choice, whereas the KD200 could appeal to users looking for a lighter touch. Overall, the KD200 is the lighter option, whereas the Sky V4 is the heavier one, providing distinct experiences based on user preference.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, the KD200 has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sky V4's travel distance is slightly longer at 3.6 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive keystroke, the KD200 would be the preferred option due to its shorter travel distance, which can lead to quicker response times, a feature particularly favored by gamers. Conversely, the Sky V4, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced key press, offering a deeper feel that some users find satisfying. In summary, for quicker responsiveness, the HMX KD200 is the better choice, while the Dareu Sky V4 is suited for those who prefer a deeper typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the HMX KD200 linear switch is recognized as the clackiest member of its switch family, indicating a more pronounced and potentially higher-pitched auditory experience. This contrasts with the Dareu Sky V4 switch, which is celebrated for its thocky sound profile, characterized by a deeper "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed, along with a generally low-pitched quality that offers a more mellow tone. The Sky V4's sound is enhanced by its innovative POK material in the top housing, contributing to a rich and satisfying typing experience. Depending on the keyboard build and keycap choice, both switches can produce distinct sound experiences, but the KD200 leans towards a sharper auditory signature compared to the deeper resonance of the Sky V4.

In terms of feel, the KD200 linear switch lacks specific descriptors, leaving its tactile feedback difficult to assess directly. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 is noted for its bouncy sensation, which provides an elastic feedback feel that gives typists a lively rebound effect with each keystroke. This spring-like response can elevate the typing experience, enhancing both comfort and efficiency during prolonged use. Without more information on the KD200, it is challenging to compare its feel directly to that of the Sky V4.

Overall, the HMX KD200 and Dareu Sky V4 switches present distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The KD200 is characterized by a clackier sound, while the Sky V4 offers a deeper, thocky sound along with a lively, bouncy feel. Newcomers can expect to enjoy different characteristics, allowing them to choose based on personal preference for typing sound and feel. For those who value a pronounced sound and have a playful touch, the KD200 may appeal, whereas those seeking a balance of deep sound and lively feedback may prefer the Sky V4.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the HMX KD200 and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing style. If you favor a lighter touch with a clackier sound profile that adds character to every keystroke, the KD200 might be your ideal choice. Its 50g bottom-out force makes it an excellent option for prolonged typing sessions where ease of actuation is paramount, particularly for those who type quickly or desire a more tactile experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a deeper and more thocky sound with a slightly higher actuation force, the Sky V4 is a compelling alternative. With its 55g bottom-out force and unique POK material that enhances the overall feel, it provides a satisfying, bouncy tactile feedback that could enhance your typing experience, whether you're at work or gaming. Ultimately, your choice should align with your sound preferences and the type of feel you enjoy while typing, ensuring that your mechanical keyboard experience is as enjoyable as possible.

Mentioned in this article

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more