Cherry MX Red vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Red and Dareu Sky V3 both offer unique qualities worth exploring. The Cherry MX Red is praised for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience with a combination of responsiveness and satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches are well-known for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, catering to a wide range of typing preferences with a balance of comfort and precision. While the MX Red offers a 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured' experience, the Sky V3 provides a 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Mild' typing experience. Each switch has its own strengths, making them suitable for different users' needs. 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
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Dareu Sky V3, we see that the MX Red features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Sky V3 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The nylon top and bottom housing of the MX Red contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, which also enhances clarity and resonance. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, with the MX Red delivering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Sky V3's more high-pitched and crisp sound.
While the housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches differ between the Cherry MX Red and the Dareu Sky V3, the qualities of each material remain consistent regardless of their placement. In both switches, the nylon housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. However, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, enhancing clarity and resonance. The impact of the housing material is felt differently depending on where it is located within the switch, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the Cherry MX Red and the Dareu Sky V3 each offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. While the MX Red features nylon top and bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Sky V3 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing for a sharper and crisper sound. Despite the differences in material, both switches provide distinct characteristics based on the properties of their housing materials. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound profile with the MX Red or a clearer and more resonant tone with the Sky V3, the choice between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch's actuation force of 40 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Dareu Sky V3 is lighter, which can be beneficial for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red provides a slightly heavier actuation force, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is the same, both measuring 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that the typing or gaming experience will be similar when using either switch. While both switches offer the same travel distance, some users may prefer the Cherry MX Red over the Dareu Sky V3 for other reasons such as actuation force or smoothness of keypress. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding factors beyond just travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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.
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 Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics, offering a deep and satisfying sound profile that resonates with many users. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is noted for its neutral and subdued sound, providing a more moderate and dampened typing experience. While the MX Red leans towards a richer and more bass-heavy tone, the Sky V3 delivers a quieter and more subtle sound, catering to different preferences in sound levels.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as textured, which means it may have noticeable friction when pressed, providing a tactile sensation that some users prefer for a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch offers a mild feel, giving a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Sky V3's mild feel strikes a balance between comfort and feedback, making it accessible to a wide range of users who seek a smoother typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Red and Dareu Sky V3 switches each offer unique qualities in sound and feel that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The MX Red provides a deeper and more textured typing experience, while the Sky V3 offers a neutral and mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches have their own merits, and choosing between them will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect satisfying results from either switch based on their desired characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, along with a more textured typing experience, then the Cherry MX Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a neutral sound signature, medium-light weight, and a more mild and approachable typing experience, then the Dareu Sky V3 could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
