Dareu Master vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master and Dareu Sky V3 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Master switch, a linear switch, is best known for its medium weight and classic clacky sound signature, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3, also a linear switch, stands out for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. While both switches have their strengths, such as smoothness and precision, and cater to different sound preferences, like clacky or neutral, it's important to delve deeper into their specific attributes to determine which switch is the best fit for your individual typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Dareu Sky V3 differ significantly in terms of the top housing material used. The Master utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Sky V3 features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch that the Master lacks.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Dareu Master and Sky V3 vary as well. The Master incorporates a POM bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile, whereas the Sky V3 utilizes a nylon bottom housing, eliciting a fuller and rounder sound. The nylon material of the Sky V3 absorbs more sound than POM, creating a duller overall sound when typing on the switch compared to the Master.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Master and the Dareu Sky V3 will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. While the Master offers a more pleasing and unique sound with its POM top and bottom housings, the Sky V3 provides a crisper and sharper sound with its polycarbonate top housing and a fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Both switches have their strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately depends on what qualities the user values most in their typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Master has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. Both switches do not have information available on their bottom out forces. This means that while the Master may require slightly more force to trigger a keystroke, the difference in actuation force is minimal. When considering weight, the Master may be preferred by those who enjoy a slightly heavier key press, while the Sky V3 could be chosen by users who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Master offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Sky V3. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer it. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Sky V3 being on the longer side and the Master being on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a clacky experience with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving off a crisp and percussive vibe. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments without being too loud or distracting. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Master being more striking and the Sky V3 being more subtle.
In terms of feel, both the Dareu Master and Sky V3 linear switches provide a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. The Master switch stands out for its polished finish, offering a smooth and refined typing feel that reduces friction and provides smooth key travel. Meanwhile, the Sky V3 switch also falls under the category of mild switches, ensuring a comfortable typing experience without any overly pronounced characteristics. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant and accessible feel that is suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Dareu Master linear switch and Dareu Sky V3 linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Master switch offers a clacky sound and a polished typing experience, the Sky V3 switch provides a more neutral sound profile and a mild, comfortable feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing sensation, either switch can deliver a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience, ensuring that users will get comparable results in terms of performance and enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Master linear switch or the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature with a medium-light weight offering a balance of comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 may be more suitable. Both switches have their own strengths and cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Master and Sky V3 switches will depend on what you value most in your typing experience.
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