Bsun Kiki Red vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Bsun Kiki Red and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Bsun Kiki Red and Dareu Sky V4 are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer a unique typing experience for enthusiasts. The Kiki Red is praised for its finely-tuned typing experience, providing a comfortably high-pitched, clacky nuance without being excessively loud. With all-POM housings and Ly stems, these switches offer smooth actuation and a medium-light weighting, appealing to those who value subtlety in auditory feedback and finesse in performance. On the other hand, the 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. Both switches have their own set of unique characteristics that make them desirable, but diving deeper into their specific features and nuances will help you decide on the best switch for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.4mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Dareu Sky V4, we see that both keyboards use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Kiki Red utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. On the other hand, the Sky V4 employs POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POK material in the Sky V4 contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches, while the nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Overall, the different materials used in each keyboard's housing contribute to distinct typing experiences.
One significant difference between the two keyboards' housing materials lies in their durability and wear resistance. The Dareu Sky V4's POK material is exceptionally strong, with wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM. Additionally, its shock resistance surpasses nylon by 2.3 times and POM by 1.4 times. In contrast, the Bsun Kiki Red's POM housing is not as durable or wear-resistant as the POK material in the Sky V4. This means that the Sky V4 may be better suited for heavy or prolonged use, as it is designed to withstand more wear and tear over time.
In terms of sound profile, the housing materials of the Bsun Kiki Red and the Dareu Sky V4 also differ. The POK material in the Sky V4 creates a clacky sound profile that is smooth and durable, while the nylon bottom housing of the Sky V4 produces a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the POM housing in the Kiki Red results in a unique and pleasing sound that is relatively more muted. While both keyboards produce satisfying sound profiles, the choice between the deep, muted sound of the Kiki Red or the clacky, smooth sound of the Sky V4 largely depends on personal preference.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we can see that the Kiki Red is lighter with an actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sky V4 is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Kiki Red provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Sky V4, which offers a medium-light feel. If one prefers a switch with a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, the Kiki Red may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Sky V4. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, so regardless of the chosen force, users can expect similar results in terms of performance and responsiveness.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is equal, with both having a travel distance of 3.6 mm. When comparing the two switches, it is evident that they offer the same tactile experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Users can expect similar results in terms of the key feel and response when using either of these switches. Ultimately, whether you choose the Bsun Kiki Red or the Dareu Sky V4, you can rest assured that the travel distance will be consistent and provide a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Kiki Red has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Kiki Red for $3.83.
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 Bsun Kiki Red switch is best characterized as offering a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience when typing. This adds a distinct percussive element to the typing feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is known for its thocky sound, producing a deep and rich tone that complements its linear action. The Kiki Red switch leans towards a higher-pitched, clacky sound, while the Sky V4 switch offers a more neutral and low-pitched sound, catering to different preferences in auditory feedback.
Moving on to feel, the Kiki Red switch is praised for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless sensation when typing. The use of high-quality materials and factory lubrication contribute to a polished and silky feel, providing a refined typing experience. Additionally, the snappy and easy-to-press nature of the Kiki Red switch enhances its responsiveness, making typing feel alive and comfortable. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is highlighted for its bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback that adds a lively rebound when pressed. While both switches offer smooth actuation, the Kiki Red focuses on a silky and polished feel, while the Sky V4 emphasizes a bouncy and elastic sensation during typing.
In conclusion, the Bsun Kiki Red and Dareu Sky V4 switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Kiki Red switch provides a clacky sound profile and a creamy, frictionless typing experience, catering to those who appreciate subtle auditory feedback and a polished feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a thocky sound with a bouncy feel, appealing to those seeking a deep and rich auditory experience with a lively typing feedback. Ultimately, both switches deliver smooth actuation and high-quality performance, providing users with satisfying typing experiences tailored to their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Kiki Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you value a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a nuanced, clacky sound with a smooth typing experience, the Kiki Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and seek a deeper, thocky sound with a bouncy feel during typing, the Sky V4 could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you want to achieve.
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