KTT Matcha vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Matcha, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Sky V4, a linear switch. The KTT Matcha is favored for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience with a clean bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that complements its smooth linear action. While the Matcha is described as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Sky V4 is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, creating a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4's POK top housing is known for its smoothness and durability, providing a clacky and durable typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Sky V4 offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics.
While both the Matcha and Sky V4 offer unique characteristics with their housing materials, they each excel in different aspects. The Matcha's polycarbonate housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, perfect for those who enjoy a sharper sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky V4's POK and nylon housing prioritize smoothness, durability, and a deeper sound profile, catering to users who prefer a clacky and robust typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience.
In terms of construction, the impact of each housing material can be felt differently depending on whether it is used for the top or bottom housing of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact on bottom-out sound and feel, are more pronounced when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. By considering the materials used in both the top and bottom housing of switches like the KTT Matcha and Dareu Sky V4, users can tailor their typing experience to suit their preferences for sound, feel, and durability.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we see that the Matcha is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Sky V4 is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Matcha provides a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, the Sky V4 offers a more substantial push feel, which may be preferred by those looking for a stronger typing experience. Despite the slight difference in forces, both switches still fall within the light to medium-light range, allowing for similar results in terms of typing comfort and responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Matcha tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Matcha being slightly longer than the Sky V4. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky V4 for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Matcha. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is known for its clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a thocky sound profile, characterized by a deep, rich, and satisfying tone that resembles a deep "thud" or soft "knock." Additionally, the Sky V4 switch is also described as having a low-pitched sound, which contributes to its bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, providing users with a tailored auditory feedback experience.
Regarding feel, the KTT Matcha switch is appreciated for its stepped and snappy tactile feedback, offering a two-stage keystroke sensation that is responsive and lively. It is also described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that strikes a balance between being noticeable without being overpowering. The Matcha switch is further characterized as feathery, requiring minimal finger exertion, which reduces fatigue and ensures comfort during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that adds a lively feel to the typing experience. Both switches provide unique tactile sensations that enhance the overall typing feel, catering to individuals with preferences for different levels of feedback and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that set them apart from each other. While the Matcha switch provides a clacky sound and a combination of stepped, snappy, and feathery tactile sensations, the Sky V4 switch offers a thocky sound and a bouncy tactile feedback experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, users can choose between these two switches to customize their mechanical keyboard setup to suit their needs and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards can enjoy a premium typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom out force and a clean bottom-out sound, then the KTT Matcha is the switch for you. The Matcha offers a comfortable and snappy typing experience with a distinct tactile feel. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action, the Dareu Sky V4 with its medium-light bottom out force might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice between the Matcha and Sky V4 will depend on your preference for tactility, sound, and typing feel. Consider your typing style and sound preference to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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