Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Keygeek Raw is known for its unique material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, creating a creamy yet lightweight feel that is slightly textured right out of the box. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, offering a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action for a rich typing experience. While the Keygeek Raw is categorized as 'Textured', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle', the Sky V4 is labeled as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Each switch has its own appeal and advantages, making them suitable for 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Dareu Sky V4 switches differ in terms of composition and properties. The Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, which provides a unique feel and sound profile exclusive to this switch. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 features a POK material for its top housing, known for its exceptional smoothness, durability, and clacky sound. While both are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, the Keygeek Raw's blend offers a different tactile feedback compared to the Dareu Sky V4's POK material.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Keygeek Raw uses a UMPE & Si blend that complements its top housing in providing a distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 employs a nylon bottom housing known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Keygeek Raw's bottom housing material. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their unique housing materials.
While the housing materials of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the Dareu Sky V4 switches differ, they both contribute significantly to the typing feel and sound produced. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a variety of characteristics to be felt and heard during typing. The qualities of the bottom housing impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer unique experiences based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Keygeek Raw has a lower bottom out force of 57.5 grams compared to the Sky V4's bottom out force of 55 grams, making the Keygeek Raw the lighter option. In terms of actuation force, the Keygeek Raw has a force of None grams, while the Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams. The Keygeek Raw would provide a more subtle typing experience with its lighter actuation force, while the Sky V4 would offer a slightly more tactile feedback with its heavier actuation force. Both switches fall under the medium to medium-light category, but the Keygeek Raw leans towards the lighter side, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, while the Dareu Sky V4 offers a more pronounced typing feel for those who prefer a firmer push. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches provide a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm standard, making them ideal for gamers looking for quicker response times. However, the Keygeek Raw offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for those seeking even faster key presses. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of functionality, with the Keygeek Raw being the shorter option and the Dareu Sky V4 being the longer option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Raw switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch provides a thocky sound with a low-pitched tone, creating a deep and satisfactory typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Keygeek Raw being more versatile and the Dareu Sky V4 delivering a richer, bass-heavy sound.
Moving on to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is known for its textured and mild typing experience, providing a subtle resistance and a friction-free feel for users. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like feedback and lively keystrokes. While the Keygeek Raw prioritizes a smooth and approachable typing feel, the Dareu Sky V4 focuses on a more dynamic and responsive keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Keygeek Raw provides a versatile and textured typing experience with a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various users and settings. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 delivers a thocky sound with a bouncy feel, offering a more dynamic and engaging typing sensation. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, ensuring users can find the ideal switch based on their desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switches and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches, consider the differences in bottom out force, materials used, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a creamy yet lightweight switch made with Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon blend, the Keygeek Raw would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you like a medium-light bottom out force and appreciate the innovative use of POK material for a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action, the Dareu Sky V4 might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
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