KTT Laurel vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Laurel and Dareu Sky V3 both offer a unique typing experience. The Laurel is a linear switch that stands out for its medium-light weight, short travel, and long pole design, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort. With a subtly low-pitched sound profile, it is categorized as 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is also a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals. Categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Subdued', it offers a balance for diverse typing preferences. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
One key difference between the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Sky V3 is in the top housing. The Laurel features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Sky V3's polycarbonate top housing generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Sky V3 not only affects the sound but also allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency. This contrast highlights how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound experience of a switch.
Another notable contrast between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Laurel utilizes a POM bottom housing, resulting in a deep and muted sound profile similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Sky V3's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer plastic composition. Nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, shaping the sound profile to be rounder and duller compared to the POM housing of the Laurel. This disparity in bottom housing materials demonstrates how varying compositions can influence the acoustic characteristics of a switch.
While the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Sky V3 differ in both top and bottom components, it's important to consider how these materials interact to create a unique typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings affect the sound profile during key press and release. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile and typing experience, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Laurel is the lighter option in terms of actuation force, requiring 43 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Laurel is also lighter at 50 grams, while the Sky V3's force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Laurel may appeal to users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the Sky V3. In situations where the forces are the same, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and experience. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Sky V3 will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is clear that the Laurel has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Sky V3 has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Laurel's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Sky V3's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Laurel offering a slightly quicker key press compared to the Sky V3. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
The Dareu Sky V3 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 V3 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
When comparing the sound qualities of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Laurel offers a low-pitched sound profile, which is characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Sky V3 provides a neutral sound signature with a subdued nature, offering a dampened sound when pressed. While both switches offer different sound profiles, the choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference and the specific environment in which the keyboard will be used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Laurel is noted for its snappy feel, which indicates a super responsive typing experience. This responsiveness is attributed to features such as longer or dual-staged springs, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Sky V3 is described as providing a mild feel, offering a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes the Sky V3 suitable for a wider range of users who prefer a more approachable typing feel.
In conclusion, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Laurel presents a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy feel, the Sky V3 boasts a neutral sound signature with a mild typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing preferences of the user. Both switches provide a medium-light weight and are known for striking a balance between comfort and precision, catering to a wide range of enthusiasts and professionals in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light bottom out force and enjoy a low-pitched sound profile with snappy responsiveness, the Laurel may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound signature, a medium-light weight, and a mild typing experience that caters to both comfort and precision, the Sky V3 could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom out force. Choose the switch that aligns best with what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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