Gazzew LT vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gazzew LT and Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gazzew LT, with its enticing lilac hue, is best known for its deep, resonant thockiness and seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 distinguishes itself through the innovative use of POK material in its top housing, providing a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action. While both switches fall under the category of 'Thocky' and 'Low-pitched', the LT is described as 'Bassy' while the Sky V4 is labeled as 'Neutral' and 'Bouncy'. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences and typing style; 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
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Gazzew LT and the Dareu Sky V4, it is clear that both switches prioritize sound quality. The Gazzew LT utilizes its proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 features a POK top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POK material in the Sky V4 contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches, while the nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of durability, the Dareu Sky V4's housing materials stand out with POK boasting impressive wear resistance and shock resistance surpassing other materials like Nylon and POM. This makes the Sky V4 a solid choice for those looking for robust and long-lasting switches. In contrast, the Gazzew LT's boba plastic blend offers a unique softness that contributes to its distinct sound profile, focusing more on the acoustic experience rather than sheer durability. While both switches offer different strengths in terms of housing materials, they ultimately cater to different preferences in sound and tactile experience.
Overall, the choice between the Gazzew LT and the Dareu Sky V4 will largely depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and durability. The Gazzew blend housing in the LT provides a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness, focusing on creating an immersive typing experience. In comparison, the POK and nylon housing in the Sky V4 offer a smoother, clackier sound with exceptional durability, making it a reliable option for those seeking a resilient switch. Whether you prioritize sound quality, durability, or a combination of both, both switches offer unique housing materials that cater to specific preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is clear that the LT has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Sky V4's 55 grams. However, the LT does not have a specified actuation force, while the Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Sky V4 requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the LT. In terms of weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Sky V4 for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the LT for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Dareu Sky V4 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gazzew LT. The difference between the two may not be significant, but it could impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switches. For those who prefer a faster response time, the Gazzew LT with its shorter travel distance may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the Dareu Sky V4 more satisfying due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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 switch is praised for its deep, bassy, and thocky sound profile, offering a satisfying auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is noted for its thocky and low-pitched sound, providing a rich and deep typing sound that complements its smooth linear action. Both switches offer a similar low-pitched tone, but the LT leans more towards a bass-heavy sound while the Sky V4 maintains a neutral sound profile suitable for various typing preferences.
In terms of feel, the Gazzew LT linear switch's tactile experience remains unspecified in the provided information. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that provides a lively feel and rebound effect when the keys are pressed. This bouncy characteristic can enhance typing speed and overall typing comfort, especially for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience.
Overall, both the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. While the LT showcases a bassy and thocky sound with a seamless glide, the Sky V4 introduces innovative POK material in its top housing for a deep and rich sound paired with a bouncy feel. Depending on whether you prefer a deeper bass sound or a more neutral sound with a bouncy feel, either switch can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a bassy, thocky sound with a low-pitched tone, the Gazzew LT may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and appreciate a thocky sound with a neutral, low-pitched tone, along with a bouncy feel to your keystrokes, the Dareu Sky V4 could be the better option. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal typing preferences and what kind of typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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