SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch. The Meteor Orange stands out for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch features POK material in its top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action that provides a rich and satisfying typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
57g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Dareu Sky V4 both utilize nylon for their top housing, providing a deep and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. However, the Sky V4 goes a step further by using POK material for its top housing, which offers enhanced smoothness, durability, and resistance to wear and shock. While both materials contribute to a rich sound experience, the POK material in the Sky V4 elevates the overall switch quality with its impressive characteristics.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Meteor Orange and the Sky V4 use nylon, emphasizing a similar sound profile marked by a deeper and fuller tone. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures consistency in the typing experience, maintaining a duller and rounder sound. This commonality in housing material for the bottom portion of the switches allows for a uniformity in sound performance, providing a level of predictability for users who appreciate a specific typing experience.
Overall, while both switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housing for a familiar sound profile, the Sky V4 sets itself apart with its utilization of POK material in the top housing. This material choice highlights the Sky V4's smoother and clackier sound, along with increased durability and resistance to wear and shock. The difference in top housing material between the Meteor Orange and the Sky V4 showcases how material selection can significantly impact the overall typing experience and switch performance. Whether one prefers the classic sound of nylon or the enhanced qualities of POK, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to diverse preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch differ in several ways. The Meteor Orange has an actuation force of None grams, making it light to activate, while the Sky V4 requires 45 grams of force to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, slightly heavier than the Sky V4 at 55 grams. The Meteor Orange provides a more consistent experience with a light actuation force, while the Sky V4 offers a slightly heavier typing feel. Both switches fall into the medium-light category, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user values a lighter actuation force or a slightly heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Meteor Orange offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sky V4, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. Gamers who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Sky V4 with its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times during gameplay. However, those who enjoy a more distinct keypress may find the Meteor Orange more satisfying with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with the Meteor Orange offering a tad more depth and the Sky V4 providing a quicker response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most typing needs, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. The switch produces a soft and satisfying "thocky" sound, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch also features a "thocky" sound profile, but with a deeper and more bass-heavy tone that complements its smooth linear action. Both switches offer a pleasing sound experience, although the Sky V4 may appeal more to those who prefer a deeper and more resonant tone. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch provides a mild tactile feedback that offers a gentle typing experience. The switch is described as polished, ensuring a smooth and refined key press with reduced friction for a sleek typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a bouncy feel with a spring-like feedback sensation. The keys have a lively bounce to them, giving users a sense of rebound when pressed. While the Meteor Orange switch provides a balanced and approachable typing experience, the Sky V4 switch offers a more dynamic and energetic feel that may appeal to users looking for a bouncier feedback.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch each have their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor Orange offers a neutral sound profile with a gentle and polished typing experience, while the Sky V4 provides a deeper and more bouncy sound and feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a softer and more refined typing experience with the Meteor Orange or a livelier and more dynamic typing feel with the Sky V4. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences. If you enjoy a gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear action with a deeper sound signature, the Sky V4 switch with its POK material top housing is a great choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
