Gateron Mini i vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and Dareu Sky V3 stand out as popular options, each offering unique features to enhance your typing experience. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that delivers a gentle tactility with a fairly muted sound profile, making it perfect for office environments where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, catering to a wide range of typing preferences. While the Mini i is categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Subtle', the Sky V3 falls under the categories of 'Neutral' and 'Mild'. Both switches provide comfort and precision, but the Mini i may be more suitable for those seeking a quieter typing experience, whereas the Sky V3 offers a versatile option for various 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
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Sky V3 lies in their housing materials. The Mini i features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Sky V3 utilizes a polycarbonate top and a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper and clearer sound profile, making it ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both switches offer unique sound profiles, the choice between the two may ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Sky V3 share similarities in their housing materials. Both switches use nylon in their bottom housing, which enhances the deep and full sound profile characteristic of nylon. This shared feature suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. However, the distinction in the top housing material may result in a noticeable difference in sound when releasing a key, as the polycarbonate of the Sky V3 is likely to create a crisper and more resonant sound compared to the duller sound produced by the nylon of the Mini i.
In conclusion, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Sky V3 ultimately comes down to individual preferences in sound and aesthetics. The nylon housing of the Mini i offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 provides a sharper and clearer sound. Both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing, ensuring a consistent typing experience in terms of sound. Whether you prefer a more rounded sound with the Mini i or a crisper sound with the Sky V3, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard enthusiast community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, the Mini i is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sky V3 has a similar actuation force of 40 grams but an unknown bottom out force. Those looking for a lighter typing experience might prefer the Mini i, as the lower actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if a heavier push is desired for a more substantial typing feel, the Sky V3 might be the better option. Both switches offer comparable actuation forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Mini i may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Sky V3 may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer a unique feel and performance, ensuring that users will get similar results in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most typing environments. However, the Sky V3 is noted for its subdued sound, offering a more muted sound signature compared to the Mini i. This difference may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience, especially in shared spaces. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is known for providing a bouncy and easy-to-press typing experience, with mild tactile feedback that enhances the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a mild typing experience, catering to users who prefer a more gentle keystroke without pronounced characteristics. Both switches aim to reduce finger fatigue during longer typing sessions, making them suitable for extended use.
In conclusion, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have some similarities in terms of sound and feel, they also have subtle differences that may cater to different preferences. The Mini i excels in providing gentle tactile feedback and a balanced sound profile, ideal for office settings, while the Sky V3 offers a quieter typing experience with a mild feel, appealing to a wider range of users. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. If you're looking for a switch that offers a subtle and quiet typing experience suitable for office settings, the Mini i tactile switch with its gentle tactility and muted sound profile is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a medium-light weight that caters to various typing preferences, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch would be a better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel, sound profile, and the specific use case for the keyboard.
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