Gazzew LT vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew LT and the Dareu Sky V3 both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Gazzew LT is known for its enticing lilac hue and deep, resonant thockiness, providing a seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches are celebrated for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a balanced typing experience for a wide range of users. While the LT is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched', the Sky V3 is characterized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Mild'. Both switches have their own strengths, catering to different typing styles and 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and Dareu Sky V3 differ in their housing materials, with the LT featuring a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing while the Sky V3 utilizes polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The Gazzew blend top housing is known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The Gazzew blend bottom housing also contributes to the rich and deep sound profile of the LT, whereas the nylon bottom housing of the Sky V3 elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Dareu Sky V3 allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend top housing of the LT does not provide this feature. However, both housing materials have their own unique sound characteristics, with the Gazzew blend providing a softer and more resonant sound, while the polycarbonate and nylon materials offer a sharper and fuller sound, respectively. Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew LT and Dareu Sky V3 will depend on personal preferences for sound profiles and aesthetic considerations.
While the materials used for the top and bottom housings of the Gazzew LT and Dareu Sky V3 differ, they both strive to enhance the overall sound profile of the switch. The Gazzew blend top and bottom housing work together to deliver a rich and deep sound profile, while the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing of the Sky V3 split the qualities between the top and bottom of the switch. The softer nature of the Gazzew blend housing absorbs sound and creates a softer, more resonant sound profile, whereas the stiffer polycarbonate and nylon materials result in a sharper and fuller sound. In the end, both switches offer unique sound experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is clear that the LT is a heavier switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Sky V3 is a lighter switch with an actuation force of 40 grams. The LT has no specified actuation force, while the Sky V3 has no specified bottom out force. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience. Those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the LT, while those seeking a lighter touch may opt for the lower actuation force of the Sky V3. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style, with weight playing a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each individual.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The LT provides a quicker response time, which is preferred by gamers for faster reactions during gameplay. On the other hand, the Sky V3 offers a deeper key press, which may be more satisfying for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches provide their own unique benefits based on individual preferences, with the shorter travel distance of the LT catering to those who prioritize speed and the longer travel distance of the Sky V3 appealing to those who desire a more tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 Gazzew LT linear switches are favored for their deep, bassy, and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each key press. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches are known for their neutral and subdued sound, offering a more understated typing experience suitable for various environments. While the LT switches emphasize a rich, low-pitched sound, the Sky V3 switches aim for a balanced sound signature that caters to a wide range of users. Ultimately, the sound preference between these two switches will come down to personal taste and the overall keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT switches' tactile characteristics are not explicitly described. However, the Dareu Sky V3 switches are noted for their mild typing experience, providing a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. This suggests that the Sky V3 switches may offer a smoother and more universally appealing typing experience compared to the potentially more distinct feel of the LT switches. Again, personal preference will play a key role in determining which switch's feel appeals most to individual users.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is evident that the Gazzew LT linear switches and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel as well. While the LT switches prioritize a deep, bassy sound profile and provide a seamless glide, the Sky V3 switches focus on a neutral and subdued sound with a mild typing experience. If a user enjoys a more rich and thocky sound with a satisfying keystroke sensation, they may lean towards the Gazzew LT switches. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more versatile and gentle typing experience may find the Dareu Sky V3 switches to be more to their liking. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gazzew LT linear switch or the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should keep in mind the key differences between them. If you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, resonant thockiness in sound, then the Gazzew LT may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more neutral sound signature and a medium-light weight that offers a comfortable typing experience suitable for various preferences, the Dareu Sky V3 could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel, so make sure to consider these factors carefully before making your choice.