Gateron Luciola vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two prominent options to ponder are the Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Sky V4, both linear switches offering unique features. The Gateron Luciola is renowned for its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark design, medium heft, and smooth, bouncy typing feel. With a distinct sound profile described as a hollow “can of spray paint being shaken,” this switch falls under categories such as 'Snappy', 'Clacky', and 'Buttery'. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out with its utilization 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, categorized as 'Thocky' and 'Bouncy'. Each switch offers its own appeal, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you determine the best fit for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Sky V4, one key difference lies in their top housing materials. The Luciola utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Sky V4 boasts a POK top housing, which is exceptionally strong and smooth, with wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM. While both materials offer durability, the Luciola's blend provides a sharper sound compared to the smoother and clackier sound associated with the Sky V4's POK material.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the differences continue to stand out between the two switches. The Luciola features the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, delivering a similar thin and higher-pitched sound profile. In contrast, the Sky V4 houses its switches in nylon, a softer plastic that produces a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the clackier sound produced by the Luciola's INK blend.
Overall, while the Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Sky V4 may offer similar levels of durability in their top and bottom housing materials, the difference in sound profile is where they truly diverge. The Luciola's INK blend provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the Sky V4's POK and nylon materials produce a smoother, clackier, and deeper sound. Whether you prefer a sharp, clacky sound or a smoother and fuller sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Luciola is the heavier option, while the Sky V4 is the lighter one. The Luciola has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. The actuation force is crucial for triggering keystrokes, while the bottom out force measures the pressure needed to press the key all the way down. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Sky V4, ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, whereas users seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Luciola with its heavier force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Luciola and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches have the same travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance in terms of how far the switch moves from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. The equal travel distance of 3.6 mm for both switches eliminates the need to choose between a shorter or longer travel distance, making them both suitable options for those looking for a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch features a thocky and low-pitched sound, giving off a deep and rich sound when typing. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Luciola providing a more bright and percussive sound, while the Sky V4 offers a deeper and more mellow tone.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its snappy and buttery typing experience, offering a smooth and bouncy feel that is responsive and lively. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively bounce when pressed. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Luciola providing a more polished and refined feel, while the Sky V4 offers a more elastic and rebounding sensation.
Overall, while the Gateron Luciola and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches have distinct sound and feel characteristics, they both excel in offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a brighter and snappier sound like the Luciola or a deeper and more mellow tone like the Sky V4, both switches are great options for those looking for a linear switch with unique qualities. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the unique features of each to best suit your preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, and a smooth and bouncy typing feel with a distinct sound profile like clacky or marbly, then the Luciola may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force, innovative use of POK material for a deeper sound signature, and a smooth linear action with a thocky or low-pitched sound profile, then the Sky V4 could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience and sound profile you personally enjoy the most.
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