Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, your choice typically hinges on the tactile feedback you desire during your typing experience. The Cherry MX Purple RGB is celebrated for its tactile feel, featuring a refined bump that strikes a balance between feedback and smoothness, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a responsive typing sensation. Developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, this switch caters to users looking for a tactile response that isn’t overwhelming. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 offers a linear switch experience, which is notably enhanced by the innovative POK material in its top housing. Typists who prefer a quieter and smoother action will find the Sky V4’s deeper sound signature and rich feedback particularly appealing, as it creates a satisfying sense of motion without the clicky noise. Each switch has its own unique qualities, drawing typists and gamers alike into their preferred 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Dareu Sky V4, one notable distinction lies in the materials used for their top housings. The MX Purple RGB opts for nylon, a traditional housing material that is known for its softer texture, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing. While POK offers outstanding durability and a smoother typing experience due to its low friction coefficient, it produces a different sound profile—characterized as clackier—due to its material properties. Thus, while both switches aim for quality typing experiences, the MX Purple RGB focuses on warmth and depth, whereas the Sky V4 leans toward a sharper, more articulate sound.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches incorporate nylon for their bottom housings. This shared choice of nylon reinforces a common auditory characteristic in both models, as nylon's inherent properties provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, especially noticeable during bottom-out actions. As such, both switches can achieve similar sounding characteristics when pressed down, thanks to the nylon’s ability to absorb sound efficiently. This similarity in bottom housing ensures that users can expect a consistent auditory feedback, albeit modulated by the varying properties of the top housing material for each switch.
The impact of these materials on the overall typing experience can be observed in how each switch behaves under pressure. The Cherry MX Purple RGB will deliver a mellow but robust sound when bottomed out, with the nylon bottom contributing significantly to this auditory experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 benefits from its strong POK top housing and durable nylon bottom, leading to a unique synthesis of a smooth actuation and a brighter sound profile. Ultimately, while the two switches share similarities in their bottom housing, their differing top housing materials lead to distinct typing sounds and sensations, catering to the preferences of different users in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means that users will require the same amount of force to register a keystroke with both switches. However, the Dareu Sky V4 has a clearly defined bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating that it requires more effort to press the key all the way down compared to the unspecified bottom out force of the MX Purple RGB. This lack of a bottom out force measurement for the Cherry switch suggests it may have a softer landing feel but doesn't provide a direct comparison for the overall typing experience. Given these characteristics, both switches might suit typists seeking lighter options due to their equal actuation force, but the Dareu Sky V4 can be considered heavier overall due to its bottom out force. Users looking for a sturdier feel may prefer the Dareu Sky V4, while those who appreciate a minimal force requirement may lean toward the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, a noticeable difference emerges. The Cherry MX Purple RGB features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. With the MX Purple RGB's longer travel distance, it offers a more substantial key press that some users may find more satisfying and tactile. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4's 3.6 mm travel distance caters to gamers who prefer quicker response times, aligning with the trend towards shorter travel distances in contemporary keyboard designs. Ultimately, those who enjoy a more pronounced key press might lean towards the Cherry MX Purple RGB, while those seeking rapid actuation may favor the Dareu Sky V4.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is known for its refined tactile experience, accented by a medium-strength bump, which suggests that it produces a satisfying, although potentially less pronounced auditory feedback compared to its counterparts. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch presents a thocky sound that is deeper and richer, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. This deeper sound profile is complemented by its neutral and moderate actuation force, making it suitable for a variety of environments. When combined with different keycap materials and board types, the Sky V4's sound signature may provide a more bass-centric auditory experience than the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
When it comes to feel, the MX Purple RGB switch is noted for its tactile experience, which could suggest a pronounced tactile bump that allows for clear feedback during typing. While the specific tactile characteristics aren’t fully detailed, they promise a refined experience tailored for enthusiasts. Conversely, the Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy sensation that gives a spring-like or elastic feedback, providing a lively and responsive feel as you type. The rebound from the Sky V4 can contribute to a more dynamic typing experience, making it enjoyable for those who prefer a lively switch.
Overall, while both the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the Dareu Sky V4 switches are designed to enhance the typing experience, they cater to different preferences. The MX Purple RGB is likely to appeal to users who appreciate a tactile feedback with a moderate auditory profile, ideal for focused typing sessions. In contrast, the Sky V4's deeper sound and bouncy feel may be more attractive to those who prefer a smooth and rich typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the tactile bump and sound refinement of the MX Purple or the bouncy feel and thocky sound of the Sky V4.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you appreciate tactile feedback and enjoy the sensation of a pronounced bump while typing or gaming, the MX Purple RGB is the better fit for you, especially considering its refined tactile experience designed for keyboard enthusiasts. This is ideal if you're looking for a switch that enhances your engagement with each keystroke and provides a satisfying tactile signal without an overwhelming bottom-out force. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more linear switch with a unique sound profile, the Sky V4 is worth considering. With its medium-light bottom-out force and thocky acoustic signature, it offers a deeper sound and bouncy feedback that can make typing feel more responsive and enjoyable. This switch is perfect for those who may be in shared workspaces or enjoying a richer auditory experience while typing. Ultimately, your decision should rest on whether you value tactile feedback or a smooth, quiet typing experience; both switches have their distinct advantages that cater to different preferences.
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