Cherry MX Black vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, both switches fall under the linear category, offering a smooth typing experience without any tactile bump. The MX Black switch by Cherry is known for its classic textured smoothness, deep sound profile, and stiff keypress. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch stands out for its use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature, a bouncy keypress, and a thocky feel. While both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, such as low-pitched sound and neutral feel, each switch may appeal to different typists depending on their typing style and preference for sound and feel. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Sky V4, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. This means that typing on both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. However, the Dareu Sky V4 takes it a step further with its POK top housing, which offers added benefits such as increased smoothness, durability, and shock resistance compared to the Cherry MX Black's nylon top housing. The POK material contributes to a smoother and more clacky typing experience, making the Sky V4 a strong contender in the switch market.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Sky V4 feature nylon as the material of choice. This means that both switches will still provide a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. The difference lies in the overall construction of the switches, with the Dareu Sky V4 boasting a nylon bottom housing to complement its POK top housing. The combination of materials in the Sky V4 ensures a consistent sound profile and durability throughout the switch, making it a popular choice for those looking for a premium typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Sky V4 comes down to personal preference and typing style. While both switches offer similar sound profiles due to their shared use of nylon in the housing materials, the Sky V4's POK top housing provides added benefits in terms of smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. If you prefer a smoother and more clacky typing experience, the Dareu Sky V4 may be the better option for you. However, if you are satisfied with the classic sound profile of nylon housing, the Cherry MX Black will still provide a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is clear that the MX Black is the heavier option. The MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Sky V4 offers a lighter typing experience with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light option. For those who enjoy a lighter typing experience, the Sky V4 would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer periods of typing without as much fatigue. However, for those who prefer a more significant push feel, the MX Black would be more suitable. In essence, the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Sky V4 would provide similar results for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, while the heavier forces of the MX Black would cater to those who prefer a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the MX Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Sky V4's 3.6 mm. The MX Black offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Sky V4 provides a slightly shorter one. Gamers may prefer the Sky V4 for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the MX Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone as you type. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch provides a thocky sound with a deep, rich, and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when pressed and released. Both switches offer different sound experiences, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference and the accompanying setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black switch is described as having a textured feel, which may introduce some friction during typing. It is also considered stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate the keys. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like and lively feedback when pressed. Again, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a smoother typing experience with a hint of texture or a more elastic and energetic response from your keys.
In conclusion, both the Cherry MX Black and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve. It's important to consider factors such as the accompanying keyboard and keycaps when choosing between these switches. And if you find that the sound and feel qualities are similar, you can expect to get comparable results in your typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the key differences in bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and a classic smoothness with a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, a deeper sound signature with a rich typing experience, and a bouncy feel, then the Dareu Sky V4 switches may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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