SP-Star Meteor White vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Meteor White is favored for its subdued and gentle linear feel, making it easy to press with a soft pitter-patter sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action that provides a rich and satisfying typing experience. While the Meteor White is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', the Sky V4 is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Each switch offers a distinct typing experience, appealing to different preferences. 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
Gold plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the SP-Star Meteor White and the Dareu Sky V4 housing materials lies in their composition. The Meteor White uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. On the other hand, the Sky V4 utilizes POK material for its top housing, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with increased durability and shock resistance compared to nylon. While both materials aim to enhance the sound and feel of the switches, the POK material in the Sky V4 offers a more robust and clacky typing experience.
In terms of sound profile, the nylon housing in the Meteor White and Sky V4 produces a duller and rounder sound, creating a more subdued typing experience. However, the POK material in the Sky V4 enhances the sound by providing a smoother and clackier typing experience, resulting in a more satisfying auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the POK material offers increased durability and wear resistance, making the switches in the Sky V4 more resilient and long-lasting compared to those in the Meteor White.
While both the SP-Star Meteor White and the Dareu Sky V4 focus on enhancing the sound profile and typing experience, they achieve this through different housing materials. The nylon housing in the Meteor White provides a classic typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, while the POK material in the Sky V4 offers a smoother and clackier typing experience with increased durability. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference, with the Meteor White appealing to those who prefer a softer sound profile, and the Sky V4 catering to those who prioritize smoothness and durability in their switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that both switches have a similar weight profile, with the Meteor White being slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force at 57 grams compared to the Sky V4's 55 grams. However, the actuation force of the Meteor White is unspecified, while the Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams. This indicates that the Sky V4 requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Meteor White, making it potentially more responsive for typing. Despite these differences, both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of weight, which may appeal to users looking for a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Ultimately, users can expect a relatively comparable typing experience between the two switches, with slight variations in actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Generally, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance offers a more substantial keystroke for those who prefer a more tactile feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Meteor White being on the longer side and the Sky V4 slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a thocky sound signature that is deep and rich, enhanced by the material used in its construction. The low-pitched nature of the Sky V4 adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to the typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can be further influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Meteor White is known for its mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Sky V4 provides a bouncy sensation with a spring-like feedback, giving the keys a lively feel and a rebound when pressed. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Meteor White focusing on a smoother and more refined feel while the Sky V4 offers a bouncier and more responsive typing experience.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor White excels in providing a soft and gentle typing experience with a subdued sound profile, while the Sky V4 stands out for its deep and rich thocky sound paired with a bouncy feel. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether opting for the gentle elegance of the Meteor White or the dynamic feedback of the Sky V4, users can expect a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a gentle and soft typing experience with a subdued sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its medium-light bottom out force and neutral sound profile make it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, if you are seeking a deeper sound signature and a smoother linear action, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch with its POK material in the top housing would be the perfect fit. The Sky V4 offers a rich and satisfying typing experience with a low-pitched thocky sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a gentle and soft typing feel with the Meteor White or a deep and smooth typing experience with the Sky V4.
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