KTT Laurel vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel and Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The KTT Laurel is praised for its medium-light actuation and full POM housing, providing a responsive yet comfortable typing experience. Additionally, its long pole design contributes to a subtly low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter switch. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out for its 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. While the KTT Laurel is categorized as 'Snappy' and 'Low-pitched', the Dareu Sky V4 is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Sky V4, one noticeable difference is in the materials used for their top housings. The Laurel features a POM top housing, known for its pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper and more muted side. In contrast, the Sky V4 utilizes a POK top housing, which boasts exceptional durability and smoothness. The POK material is stronger than POM and nylon, making switches made with it more resilient and clacky. While both materials offer distinct advantages, the POK top housing of the Sky V4 may be more appealing to those seeking a robust and smooth typing experience.
Another point of comparison between the two switches lies in their bottom housings. The Laurel's POM bottom housing mirrors its top housing in terms of sound profile, creating a consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 incorporates a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. Nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller yet rounder sound profile. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing sound and feel of the switches, catering to different preferences among users.
While the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Sky V4 offer unique characteristics, they both contribute to the overall typing experience in their own ways. The use of POM in the Laurel's housing provides a consistent and pleasing sound profile, while the POK material in the Sky V4 enhances durability and smoothness. Similarly, the POM and nylon bottom housings in the Laurel and Sky V4, respectively, create distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference regarding sound, feel, and durability, as each housing material brings its own set of qualities to the typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provide unique typing experiences. The Laurel switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sky V4 switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Laurel switch offers a lighter typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Sky V4 switch provides a slightly heavier push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a comparable experience in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring users will achieve similar results regardless of their choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for typing feel and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. The slight difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who are more sensitive to the feel of their keyboard, it could make a difference. In this case, the Sky V4 would be considered the longer of the two switches, although both are relatively short when compared to traditional 4.0 mm travel distances. Ultimately, the choice between the Laurel and the Sky V4 will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the level of responsiveness desired.
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 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
When it comes to sound, the Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch produces a deeper, thocky sound that is rich and satisfying, thanks to the innovative use of POK material in its top housing. While the Laurel leans towards a low-pitched sound, the Sky V4 offers a more distinct and thocky sound experience for typists. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Moving on to feel, the Laurel switch is known for its snappy response, offering super responsiveness that makes the typing experience feel more alive. On the contrary, the Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. The snappy feel of the Laurel switch may appeal to those looking for quick and responsive keystrokes, while the bouncy feel of the Sky V4 may be preferred by typists who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. Again, the decision between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference and typing style.
In conclusion, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Laurel provides a low-pitched sound and snappy response, the Sky V4 offers a deeper, thocky sound and a bouncy feel. Both switches excel in their own right, offering typists a choice between a mellower, responsive experience with the Laurel and a more distinct, dynamic feel with the Sky V4. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience and provide a satisfying performance for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Laurel linear switch or the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing needs. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile with a snappy feel, the Laurel switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a deeper thocky sound profile, and a bouncy feel, the Sky V4 switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it is important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Laurel and Sky V4 switches will depend on what aspects of typing experience are most important to you.
Mentioned in this article
