Cherry MX Brown vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Brown and Dareu Sky V3 offer distinct typing experiences. The MX Brown is known for its subtle tactile feedback and low audio profile, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is praised for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience. While the MX Brown is ideal for those who prefer a textured, bassy feel, the Sky V3 appeals to users looking for a more subdued and mild typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The main difference between the Cherry MX Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 lies in their housing materials. The MX Brown features a nylon top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Sky V3 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate also allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
While the top housings of the MX Brown and the Sky V3 differ significantly in material, both switches share a common nylon bottom housing. This means that when typing on switches with either housing, users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile due to the softer plastic used in the bottom housing. The impact of the housing material is most noticeable when bottoming out the key, as the properties of the bottom housing will have a more significant influence on the sound and feel of the keystroke. However, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing the key, highlighting the importance of both housing materials in creating the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the choice between the Cherry MX Brown and the Dareu Sky V3 ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetics. The MX Brown's nylon housing provides a more subdued and rounded sound, while the Sky V3's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and clearer sound. Both options have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the bottom housing remaining consistent in providing a deep and full sound profile. Whether you prefer a softer, duller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches offer high-quality materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, which requires 40 grams of force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the MX Brown requires 55 grams, while the Sky V3 force is unknown. This makes the MX Brown switch slightly heavier overall. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Sky V3 for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the more substantial feel of the MX Brown for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on preferred actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feedback and typing experience when using either of these switches. The travel distance of 4 mm on both switches is considered standard for most mechanical keyboards, providing a comfortable typing experience for users. Overall, while the Cherry MX Brown and Dareu Sky V3 switches may have different characteristics in terms of tactility and sound, their travel distance remains the same, offering users a consistent typing experience regardless of the switch they choose.
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 Cherry MX Brown 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 Brown switches are often described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. This means that the key presses produce a deeper and richer tone with a more mellow and bass-heavy quality. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches are known for their neutral and subdued sound. This results in a moderate sound profile that is not overly loud or clicky, making them suitable for various environments and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Brown switches are often characterized as textured, providing a tactile feedback that can feel slightly scratchy to some users. This texture can be preferred by those who enjoy a bit of resistance in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches offer a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle ground. This means that the feel of the switches is gentle and approachable to most users, striking a balance between comfort and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Brown switches and Dareu Sky V3 switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Brown switches provide a subtle and tactile typing experience with a bassy sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a bit of texture and depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches offer a neutral sound signature and a mild typing feel, catering to a broader range of preferences and providing a comfortable yet precise typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer reliable performance and can deliver satisfying results for different types of users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a subtle tactile feedback with a medium-light typing experience and enjoy a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, the MX Brown may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that offers a neutral sound signature, a mild typing experience, and a switch that strikes a balance between comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 would be a suitable option. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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