PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards. The Milk Tea switch is renowned for its high-pitched yet muted sound, providing a balance between presence and subtlety. With a light bottom-out force of 43.5g and a stem material made of Ly, it is designed for prolonged typing sessions with ease. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch is known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a comfortable and precise typing experience. While the Milk Tea switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Sky V3 switch falls under 'Neutral' and 'Subdued'. Ultimately, both switches have their unique selling points, but diving deeper into their characteristics will help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37.5g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Dareu Sky V3, it is evident that there are significant differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Milk Tea's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and muted sound, while the Sky V3's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings result in a sharper, higher-pitched sound. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Another point of comparison between the two keyboards lies in their aesthetic appeal. The Milk Tea's POM top housing offers a more opaque and solid appearance, while the Sky V3's polycarbonate top housing provides a translucent and sleek look that is perfect for showcasing RGB lighting. This difference in visual design showcases how housing materials can also play a role in the overall look and style of a mechanical keyboard, catering to different preferences and tastes among users.
Despite the differences in sound profile and aesthetics, both the Milk Tea and the Sky V3 demonstrate the importance of housing materials in influencing the typing experience. Whether it be the softer nylon bottom housing of the Sky V3 or the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Tea, each material brings its unique qualities to the forefront. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and visual appearance, showcasing the diverse options available in the mechanical keyboard market.
Weight
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the Milk Tea has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 43.5 grams, while the bottom out force for the Sky V3 is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Milk Tea switch, as it allows for longer typing or gaming sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Sky V3 may appeal to users who prefer a bit more resistance and a stronger push feel for 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
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Tea has a shorter travel distance compared to the Sky V3. The shorter travel distance of the Milk Tea may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Sky V3 might provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched and marbly tone, providing a unique auditory experience that is both sharp and resonant. This gives it a distinctive and slightly clacky sound profile that may appeal to those who enjoy a more distinctive typing sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound, offering a more moderate and subtle auditory experience that is suitable for a wider range of preferences. While the Milk Tea switch leans towards a sharper and more pronounced sound, the Sky V3 switch provides a milder and more understated typing experience, catering to a broader audience.
In terms of feel, the Milk Tea switch is noted for its polished and silky texture, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience that minimizes friction and enhances key travel. This tactile sensation lends itself well to prolonged typing sessions, offering a comfortable and effortless keystroke feel. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. This makes it a versatile option that can appeal to a wide range of users seeking a more approachable and comfortable typing sensation.
Overall, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milk Tea switch provides a sharper and more resonant sound with a polished and silky feel, the Sky V3 switch offers a neutral and subdued sound with a mild typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and tactile feel, but both switches are designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users across different typing needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force of 43.5 grams, a high-pitched yet muted auditory experience, and a polished and silky typing feel, then the Milk Tea may be the ideal choice for you, especially if you engage in prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound signature, a medium-light weight, and a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, the Sky V3 could be more suitable for your diverse typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences and typing needs.
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