Durock Light Tactile vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is highly regarded for its gentle tactility, providing a unique typing experience with a soft touch and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, appealing to a wide range of typing preferences. While the Light Tactile offers a polished and mild tactile feedback, the Sky V3 provides a subdued and mild linear feel. Both switches have their own merits, catering to different user 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
52g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. However, the Light Tactile and Sky V3 differ in their bottom housing material, with the Light Tactile featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Sky V3 also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics for a rounder and duller sound overall.
Despite the similarities in their top housing material, the Durock Light Tactile and Dareu Sky V3 showcase contrasting characteristics in their bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of both keyboards contributes to a different typing experience, with the Light Tactile emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Sky V3 offers a unique sound signature with its nylon material. The differences in bottom housing materials impact the overall sound and feel of typing on each keyboard, creating distinct experiences for users. Additionally, the split between top and bottom housing materials affects the sound when pressing down on a key versus releasing it, highlighting the role each material plays in the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while both the Durock Light Tactile and Dareu Sky V3 utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, they diverge in their bottom housing material, with both keyboards opting for nylon. This contrast results in a nuanced typing experience for users, with the Light Tactile offering a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its nylon bottom housing, while the Sky V3 presents a unique sound signature with its own nylon material. The choice of housing materials significantly impacts the overall sound and feel of typing on each keyboard, emphasizing the importance of material selection in keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we see that the Light Tactile has a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. Additionally, the Light Tactile has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky V3 is unknown. This makes the Light Tactile the heavier option between the two. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the pressure needed for a full key press. Some users prefer a lighter actuation force for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others prefer a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Light Tactile and Sky V3 switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is the same, with both having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity ensures that the typing experience on both switches will be consistent in terms of key travel. In terms of comparing and contrasting, since the travel distance is the same for both switches, users can expect a similar typing experience in that aspect. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, which may cater to different preferences depending on the user's typing style. Ultimately, whether you choose the Durock Light Tactile or the Dareu Sky V3, you can expect a similar travel distance and consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
The Durock Light Tactile switch is praised for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature, appealing to those who prefer a softer feel and a more subtle sound when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, with a subdued sound that is dampened when pressed, making it a suitable option for various typing preferences. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, with the Light Tactile being described as polished for a smooth and refined finish, while the Sky V3 provides a comfortable balance between comfort and precision.
In summary, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a softer tactility and a more gentle sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be an excellent choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a subdued sound, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is a popular option that offers a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a pleasing typing feel and sound, catering to a diverse range of users depending on their preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a gentle tactility and a jelly-like sound signature in your typing experience, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a balance between comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific qualities that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you value a refined typing experience or a versatile switch that caters to various typing preferences, both the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3 have their unique strengths to offer. In the end, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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