Zuoce Lavender vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Zuoce Lavender and the Dareu Sky V3, both of which are linear switches. The Lavender is lauded for its exceptional smoothness and clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switches are praised for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a balance between comfort and precision that appeals to a wide range of users. While the Lavender is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Sky V3 is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Mild'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and specific typing needs. 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
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Zuoce Lavender and the Dareu Sky V3 offer distinct sound profiles due to their difference in materials. The POM top housing of the Lavender creates a deep and muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 produces a sharper and crisper sound. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the auditory experience. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Lavender contributes to its unique sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Sky V3 enhances the depth and fullness of its sound.
The choice of housing material in switches plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While POM and nylon both offer pleasing sound profiles, their characteristics differ in terms of depth, sharpness, and clarity. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the stiffer POM material. This difference in sound can be felt when pressing down on the switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The top housing, on the other hand, affects the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of both materials in creating a balanced typing experience.
In comparing the housing materials of the Lavender and the Sky V3, it is evident that each material brings its own unique qualities to the table. While POM offers a more muted and deep sound profile, polycarbonate provides a sharper and crisper sound. Similarly, nylon adds depth and fullness to the sound, while POM contributes to a more unique and pleasing auditory experience. Despite their differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through the careful selection of housing materials, showcasing the importance of material choice in creating a personalized and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that they have differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Zuoce Lavender has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 has an actuation force of 40 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. The Lavender is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Sky V3, which may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, the lighter actuation force of the Sky V3 may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions where fatigue may become a factor. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we can see that the Lavender has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Sky V3 has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Sky V3 provides a longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance, with the Lavender being the shorter option and the Sky V3 being the longer option. Both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, but the Lavender may offer a slightly quicker response time compared to the Sky V3.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 it comes to sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise with each key press. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, making it suitable for various environments and typing preferences. Both switches can deliver satisfying auditory feedback, but the Lavender leans towards a more distinct and crisp sound, while the Sky V3 offers a more balanced and subtle audio experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Lavender linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, with minimal force required for activation, leading to a comfortable and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a mild typing sensation, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone for most users. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of typing resistance and feedback, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its exceptional smoothness and clacky sound signature, offering a satisfying typing experience with minimal effort. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is popular for its neutral sound and mild typing feel, providing a comfortable and versatile option for a wide range of users. Depending on whether you prefer a more distinct sound and easy-to-press feel or a neutral sound and mild typing experience, both switches can deliver quality performance and satisfaction in different aspects, ensuring a positive typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you are looking for a smooth and clacky typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Lavender switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature and a medium-light feel without a specified bottom out force, the Sky V3 switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches offer unique characteristics, so ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal preference and typing style.
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