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Durock Medium Tactile vs. Dareu Sky V3

An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When comparing the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3 mechanical keyboard switches, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile versus linear switches. The Durock Medium Tactile is lauded for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature, making it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is praised for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience for both casual users and professionals. While both switches offer their own unique advantages, such as comfort and precision, it's essential to delve deeper beyond these generalities to determine which switch best suits your typing needs.

By the numbers

Technical specifications

Actuation force

N/A

Actuation force

40g

Bottom-out force

65g

Bottom-out force

N/A

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Total travel

4.00 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

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Gold-plated spring

Spring

Gold-plated spring

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, the Medium Tactile stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Sky V3's polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound on the Medium Tactile.

In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate in their construction. This not only adds to the visual appeal of the switches but also enhances the RGB lighting effects. However, when it comes to sound quality, the Durock Medium Tactile's nylon bottom housing offers a unique depth and fullness that the Dareu Sky V3's polycarbonate bottom housing may not match. The difference in material choice for the bottom housing affects the overall sound experience of each switch, with the nylon providing a more muted and rounded sound compared to the crisper and sharper sound of the polycarbonate.

Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Sky V3 will come down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches offer a sharp, higher-pitched sound with their polycarbonate top housing, the Medium Tactile's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile that is unique to this switch. Whether you prefer a clear, resonant sound or a more muted, rounded sound, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their combination of housing materials.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is clear that they have different characteristics. The Durock Medium Tactile has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while the actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 has an actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is not specified. In terms of weight, the Dareu Sky V3 is lighter due to its lower actuation force, which may appeal to users looking for a more lightweight typing experience. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Durock Medium Tactile's heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

Both the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, meaning that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. This distance is considered to be a moderate travel distance, providing a balance between responsive feedback and a comfortable typing experience. While both switches share the same travel distance, the Medium Tactile offers a tactile bump during keypresses, providing additional feedback to the user, whereas the Sky V3 linear switch offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in typing experience.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.

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 Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile. The Medium Tactile switch may provide a more pronounced and tactile auditory feedback, which some users may find satisfying. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch delivers a quieter and more subtle sound, suitable for environments where noise level is a concern. Both switches will sound different based on the keyboard and keycaps they are paired with, so it's important to consider these factors when making a decision.

In terms of feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch offers an accented, stepped, mild, and polished typing experience. This means that it provides a balanced level of tactility without being too overwhelming, giving a smooth and refined feel to the keystrokes. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable to most users. The Sky V3 switch may not have the same level of tactility as the Medium Tactile, but it offers a comfortable and consistent typing feel that can cater to a wide range of preferences and typing styles.

Overall, both the Durock Medium Tactile and Dareu Sky V3 switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile feel and jelly-like sound, the Medium Tactile switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more subdued typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Sky V3 switch could be the better option. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style, so it's essential to try out different switches to determine which one suits you best.

Conclusion

In closing, when considering whether to choose the Durock Medium Tactile or the Dareu Sky V3 switch, you should opt for the Durock Medium Tactile if you prefer a switch with medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced yet balanced tactility. This switch offers a jelly-like sound signature and is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bottom out force of None grams and a more neutral sound profile, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is the way to go. It provides a comfortable and precise typing experience with a subdued sound that is suitable for a variety of typing preferences. Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you prioritize tactility and sound signature (Durock Medium Tactile) or a neutral feel with precise typing (Dareu Sky V3). Consider your preferences and typing style to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

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