Bsun Light Sakura vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Bsun Light Sakura and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When evaluating mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Light Sakura and the Dareu Sky V4 present two appealing yet distinct options for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The Light Sakura is celebrated for its ultra-light, silent operation that fosters comfort during extended typing sessions, making it an ideal choice for office environments or shared workspaces where discretion is key. In contrast, the Sky V4 switch leverages innovative POK material in its top housing, delivering a smooth linear action complemented by a low-pitched, thocky sound signature that offers a richer auditory feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. While the Light Sakura emphasizes silent efficacy and fatigue reduction, the Sky V4 features a satisfying acoustic quality that appeals to tactile 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Light Sakura and the Dareu Sky V4, there are notable differences in their compositions that affect their sound profiles and performance. The Light Sakura utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. Known for its stiffness, polycarbonate offers a high-pitched and crisp sound quality, making it particularly effective for users seeking clarity in their typing experience. Moreover, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. This cohesive use of polycarbonate contributes to a consistently bright auditory experience across both the top and bottom housings.
In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 employs two different materials: POK for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POK material brings a smooth, clacky response and is distinguished by its excellent durability and wear resistance. Although POK is known for producing a clear sound, the difference in material between the top and bottom of the switch introduces a distinct auditory variation. The nylon bottom housing, being softer and more absorbent, yields a deeper and fuller sound profile. This combination means that while both switches may offer satisfying auditory feedback, the specific characteristics of each housing material will lead to a more nuanced experience with the Sky V4, where the high-pitched clarity of the POK contrasts with the rounded tones from the nylon.
Despite these differences, both the Bsun Light Sakura and the Dareu Sky V4 can deliver an enjoyable typing experience, albeit with varying sound profiles. If you're seeking a clear and radiant auditory output, the polycarbonate housing of the Light Sakura provides this throughout. Meanwhile, the Dareu Sky V4's combination of materials creates a dynamic interplay of bright and deep sounds, allowing for a diverse range of auditory feedback during use. Ultimately, while their materials differ, both switches can achieve high levels of satisfaction and performance, depending on the user's preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch exhibit distinct characteristics in both actuation force and bottom out force, catering to different user preferences. The Light Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, where less effort can reduce fatigue. In contrast, the Sky V4 has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a more substantial feel that some typists and gamers may prefer for a firmer feedback. This distinction means that users looking for a lighter touch should gravitate towards the Light Sakura, while those who appreciate a stronger push should consider the Dareu Sky V4. Overall, the differences in actuation and bottom out forces suggest that users will experience different levels of tactile feedback and effort with each switch.
Travel distance
Both the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch feature the same travel distance of 3.6 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar feel and feedback when pressing down on keys equipped with either switch. This equal travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience, making both switches an excellent choice for those who prioritize smooth key presses. Given this similarity, users can anticipate comparable performance in terms of keystroke depth and responsiveness, regardless of their choice between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Light Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Sakura for $3.49.
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
The Bsun Light Sakura switch boasts a notably silent operation, making it exceptionally suitable for environments where discretion is essential, such as offices or shared workspaces. However, without specific descriptors for sound quality, it can be assumed that its quietness stands in stark contrast to the Dareu Sky V4 switch. The Sky V4, on the other hand, offers a richer auditory experience characterized by a thocky sound profile, which can be described as deep and satisfying, reminiscent of a soft knock or a gentle thud upon key activation. This low-pitched sound is not only appealing for those who enjoy an acoustic feedback while typing but also strives to provide a more immersive experience, highlighting the tactile relationship between the typist and the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Light Sakura is recognized for its ultra-light touch, making it a comfortable choice for prolonged typing sessions, but lacks further specific descriptors. Conversely, the Sky V4 is described as bouncy, giving each key press an elastic feedback that can enhance the typing experience by providing a lively sensation with a rewarding rebound. This bounciness can lead to an engaging and dynamic interaction with the keyboard, catering to those who prefer tactile responsiveness in their switches.
In summary, the Bsun Light Sakura and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches cater to differing preferences within the realm of mechanical keyboards. The Light Sakura focuses on providing a silent and lightweight experience ideal for extensive use, while the Sky V4 emphasizes a richer sound and a bouncier feel that offers engaging feedback. Depending on your priorities—be it discretion or auditory pleasure—either switch can serve you well, but your choice will hinge on whether you prioritize a silent, fatigue-reducing experience or an enriching sound and dynamic feel during your typing sessions.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Bsun Light Sakura linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your specific needs and typing style. If you're looking for a lightweight switch that excels in comfort and quietness, particularly for extended typing sessions in shared or office environments, the Light Sakura is your best bet. Its 43-gram bottom-out force allows for effortless keystrokes, ensuring minimal fatigue while remaining discreet. On the other hand, if you desire a switch that provides a deeper, satisfying sound with more tactile feedback during your typing experience, the Sky V4 is the way to go. With a medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams, it offers a balanced feel that’s both bouncy and immersive, making it great for casual gaming or intense typing at home. Ultimately, your choice should hinge on whether you prioritize a silent, fatigue-reducing experience or an enriched auditory and tactile feedback.
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