Zuoce Lavender vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Zuoce Lavender and the Dareu Sky V4, both linear switches. The Zuoce Lavender switch is praised for its exceptional smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary blend. It offers a crisp and clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch 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. While the Lavender switch is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Sky V4 switch is described as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Both switches have their unique qualities that appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Lavender and the Dareu Sky V4, we can see that both switches utilize high-quality materials to enhance the overall typing experience. The Lavender's POM top and bottom housings provide a unique sound profile that is deep and muted, while the Sky V4's POK top housing offers smoothness and durability with a clacky sound. The difference lies in the material used for the bottom housing, with the Lavender also utilizing POM for a consistent sound profile, whereas the Sky V4 employs nylon for a deeper and fuller sound.
Despite the differences in the bottom housing material, both the Zuoce Lavender and the Dareu Sky V4 prioritize sound quality and durability in their housing materials. The POM material used in the Lavender creates a unique sound profile that is deep and muted, while the POK material in the Sky V4 ensures smoothness, clackiness, and durability. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing in the Sky V4 offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound compared to harder plastics.
Overall, both the Zuoce Lavender and the Dareu Sky V4 showcase the importance of housing materials in determining sound quality and overall typing experience. The POM housings of the Lavender provide a consistent and unique sound profile, while the POK top housing and nylon bottom housing of the Sky V4 offer a smooth, clacky, and deep sound profile. Despite the differences in material, both switches prioritize durability and sound quality, ensuring that typists can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we see that both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of force. The Lavender has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Lavender is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, while the Sky V4 is slightly heavier when it comes to bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter keystroke, either of these switches would provide a similar typing experience. However, for individuals who prefer a bit more resistance and feedback while typing, the slight differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches may influence their decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Zuoce Lavender and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In comparison, the Lavender has a slightly shorter travel distance than the Sky V4. The difference between the two may not be significant, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the switches. Gamers might prefer the Lavender for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial and tactile feel might lean towards the Sky V4 with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This sound profile creates a distinct and satisfying typing experience that many users enjoy. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a thocky sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying, offering a different auditory experience that complements its smooth linear action. While the Lavender switch leans towards a sharper sound, the Sky V4 switch delivers a more mellow and bass-heavy tone, catering to different preferences in sound.
As for feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses with minimal force required to activate the switch. This light actuation force enhances typing efficiency, comfort, and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Lavender switch focusing on effortless typing and the Sky V4 switch emphasizing a bouncy and responsive feel.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch present different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lavender switch excels in providing a clacky sound signature and an easy-to-press typing experience, while the Sky V4 switch offers a deeper thocky sound and a bouncy key feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches delivering satisfactory typing experiences to users seeking linear switches with unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Zuoce Lavender linear switch or the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prioritize a smooth and clacky typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Lavender switch with its crisp sound signature is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with POK material in the top housing for a deeper and thocky sound, along with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Sky V4 switch may be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, so it's important to consider your sound and feel preferences when making a decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Lavender and Sky V4 switches will depend on what type of typing experience you are looking for.
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