Keygeek Keylin vs. Dareu Sky V4

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect linear mechanical keyboard switch, the Keygeek Keylin and the Dareu Sky V4 stand out for their unique characteristics and appeal to different typing preferences. The Keygeek Keylin excels in providing a premium typing experience facilitated by its new molds, resulting in exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics. Typists who prioritize a refined touch and a pleasant auditory feedback may lean towards the Keylin for its ability to deliver an elevated sensation with each keystroke. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V4 sets itself apart with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, which contributes to a deeper sound signature alongside its smooth linear action. This switch is particularly ideal for those who favor a "thocky," neutral feel with a low-pitched and bouncy response, appealing to users seeking a more tactile feedback while still enjoying the smoothness of linear switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your typing style and needs.

By the numbers

Keygeek Keylin Linear

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keylin and the Dareu Sky V4, we note a distinct contrast in their top housing materials. The Keylin utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is celebrated for its soft texture and acoustic properties. Nylon’s ability to absorb sound contributes to a deeper and fuller typing experience, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Sky V4 employs POK material, also known as polyketone, which is noted for its smoothness and exceptional durability. With a higher coefficient of friction than nylon, POK generates a clackier sound, providing a distinct auditory characteristic compared to the Keylin's subdued tones. As a result, users may find that while both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, the tonal nuances differ significantly, with the Keylin delivering richer, muted sounds and the Sky V4 producing sharper, crisper sounds.

However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing materials, as both the Keylin and the Sky V4 feature nylon at this part of the switch. The use of nylon in both bottom housings provides a consistent sound profile, contributing to that same deep and full auditory experience when the keys bottom out. Since the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottoming-out sound and feel, users can expect a similar tactile and acoustic response in this aspect regardless of the differences in the top housings. This consistency ensures that while the top housings may create diverse sounds, the bottoming-out experience will feel familiar and comfortable for both switches.

Ultimately, the combination of different top housing materials with the same bottom housing creates a layered auditory and tactile experience. The Keylin’s nylon top generates a softer typing sensation suited for users who prefer a more muted sound, while the Sky V4’s POK top caters to those who enjoy a smooth, clacky feedback. In practical application, this means that while both switches will share a similar feel when bottoming out due to their nylon bottoms, they cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel based on their unique top housing materials. Thus, users should consider their personal preferences regarding sound profiles when choosing between the Keygeek Keylin and the Dareu Sky V4.

Weight

When comparing the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces highlight their respective feel and user experience. The Keylin switch features a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for users who value a lighter touch during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Sky V4 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a medium-light feel that may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, the Keylin switch is the lighter option, while the Sky V4 is the heavier choice. Users looking for a switch that allows for extended use without fatigue might gravitate toward the Keylin, whereas those who enjoy a stronger push might find the Sky V4 more satisfying.

Travel distance

The travel distance of both the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is identical, measuring 3.6 mm from the top to the bottom. This similarity means that users can expect a comparable feel and responsiveness when pressing down on keys for both switches. With the same travel distance, both switches will deliver similar performance in terms of key actuation and tactile feedback. This uniformity offers users a seamless experience when transitioning between keyboards equipped with either switch, as neither switch provides a notable advantage in travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Keygeek Keylin linear switch is known for delivering a premium acoustic experience characterized by its rich acoustics, although specific descriptors are not provided. In comparison, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch stands out with its thocky, low-pitched qualities, which create a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. This thocky profile is complemented by a neutral tone that maintains a moderate sound level, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in the office. Given this information, you can expect that both switches, though they differ in their acoustic signatures, will provide a satisfying auditory feedback, with the Sky V4 leaning more toward a deep, bass-heavy character.

In terms of feel, the Keygeek Keylin's qualities are less defined, leaving room for speculation. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 offers a notably bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, granting typists a lively and responsive feel during use. This added rebound can enhance the overall typing experience, allowing for quicker key presses and a more enjoyable interaction with the switch. Therefore, while the Keylin’s feel remains unknown, the Sky V4 certainly presents a distinctive tactile quality that some typists may find more engaging.

In conclusion, both the Keygeek Keylin and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches bring unique auditory and tactile attributes to the table. The Keylin focuses on a premium sound experience, while the Sky V4 offers a deeper, thocky acoustic profile and a bouncy feel that adds liveliness to typing. Depending on personal preference, each switch provides a different yet satisfying experience, making either a worthy choice for those seeking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup. If you prioritize a specific auditory experience or feel, those distinctions will help guide your decision.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the Keygeek Keylin linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch fundamentally hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you value a lighter actuation force (48 grams) for quicker response times and a luxurious typing experience marked by exceptional smoothness and rich acoustics, the Keylin switch may be your best bet. It is particularly well-suited for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, whether for gaming or extended typing sessions. Conversely, if you appreciate a slightly firmer feel (55 grams) and are drawn to a deeper, thocky sound signature, the Sky V4 could be the ideal choice for you. The innovative use of POK material in its construction not only enhances the sound but also adds a bouncy feedback that many typists find satisfying and invigorating. Therefore, consider the nuances of feedback, sound, and actuation force to determine which switch aligns best with your needs, enriching your keyboard experience as a whole.

Mentioned in this article

Keygeek Keylin Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more