Gateron Mini i vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Sky V4 offer distinct experiences for different preferences. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility and muted sound profile, making it perfect for the quiet professionalism of an office setting. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 is a linear switch that stands out for its smooth linear action and deeper sound signature, providing a rich and satisfying typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Sky V4, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. While the Mini i and Sky V4 both benefit from these acoustic qualities, the Sky V4 also boasts the use of POK material for its top housing. This material is highly durable, offering wear resistance that surpasses nylon and shock resistance that outperforms both nylon and POM.
Moving on to the bottom housing of these switches, it is interesting to note that both the Mini i and Sky V4 utilize nylon for this component as well. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the switches' deep and full sound profiles, absorbing sound and creating a duller and rounder sound upon activation. With both switches sharing this common housing material for the bottom, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. However, the difference in top housing material between the two switches may lead to variations in overall sound and durability.
While the Gateron Mini i and Dareu Sky V4 share similarities in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, the Sky V4 sets itself apart with the incorporation of POK material for the top housing. This choice results in a smoother, clackier typing experience with enhanced durability compared to the Mini i. Ultimately, the housing materials play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of these switches, with the choice between nylon and POK influencing the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch. The Mini i requires 40 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. On the other hand, the Sky V4 needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, which is slightly heavier than the Mini i. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Mini i would be the better choice. However, if a more substantial typing feel is desired, the Sky V4 would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Dareu Sky V4 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gateron Mini i. Both of these switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, particularly among gamers. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference - if you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel while typing, the Dareu Sky V4 may be the better option for you. However, if you prioritize quick responsiveness, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch with its slightly shorter travel distance could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer comparable results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a fairly neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between satisfying feedback and a muted sound, making it suitable for quiet office environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch produces a deeper, thocky sound signature that complements its smooth linear action, providing a rich and satisfying typing experience with a low-pitched tone. Both switches offer different sound profiles that cater to individual preferences, with the Mini i being more neutral and the Sky V4 offering a deeper and more satisfying sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Mini i and Dareu Sky V4 switches provide a bouncy sensation during key presses, giving a lively and spring-like feel to typing. Additionally, the Mini i switch is described as easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, offering a gentle and responsive typing experience suitable for long hours of comfortable typing. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch is also characterized as bouncy, providing a similar elastic feedback sensation. Despite the different descriptions, both switches offer a bouncy feel that enhances typing comfort and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i provides a neutral sound with a bouncy, easy-to-press feel suitable for a professional office setting, while the Sky V4 offers a thocky sound with a bouncy feel that enhances the typing experience with a deeper and more satisfying sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both switches providing a pleasant typing experience in their own distinct ways.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the environment and your personal preferences. If you value a quiet and subtle typing experience with a gentle tactility, the Mini i would be a suitable choice, especially for office settings where a muted sound profile is essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action, the Sky V4 might be more to your liking, offering a rich and satisfying typing experience with its innovative POK material. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize a light, bouncy feel with moderate sound or a thocky, low-pitched typing experience. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and environment for an optimal mechanical keyboard setup.
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