Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Dareu Sky V3 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that provides a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is also a linear switch known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a balance of comfort and precision for diverse typing preferences. While the MX Silent Red is characterized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Sky V3 is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Mild'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Both the Cherry MX Silent Red and Dareu Sky V3 switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound while typing, offering a satisfying tactile experience. However, the top housing differs between the two switches, with the MX Silent Red featuring a nylon top housing and the Sky V3 boasting a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the more mellow sound produced by the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red.
While both switches share a nylon bottom housing, providing a consistent deep and full sound, their top housing materials offer distinct sound profiles. The nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red creates a softer and more absorbing sound profile, ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dareu Sky V3 delivers a more clear and resonant sound, emphasizing the tactile feedback of each keystroke. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making the Sky V3 a visually appealing option for those looking to customize their keyboard setup.
Overall, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and Dareu Sky V3 switches will come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. While both switches offer a deep and full sound due to their nylon bottom housing, the distinct qualities of their top housing materials set them apart. Whether you prefer the softer and more absorbent sound of nylon in the MX Silent Red or the clear and sharp sound of polycarbonate in the Dareu Sky V3, both switches provide a tactile typing experience with unique acoustic characteristics. Ultimately, the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and visual customization options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we can see that the MX Silent Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Sky V3 for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the slightly heavier actuation force of the MX Silent Red for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, making them both viable options depending on the user's preferences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we find that the MX Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Sky V3 has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the MX Silent Red has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dareu Sky V3. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the MX Silent Red due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may opt for the Dareu Sky V3 with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the slight difference in travel distance may cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing or gaming preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is often praised for its muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound, offering a moderate sound profile that caters to a wide range of preferences. While both switches aim to minimize noise, the MX Silent Red leans towards a deeper, richer sound, while the Sky V3 provides a more subtle and dampened sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired sound experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Silent Red is described as having a textured feel, which may not appeal to users who prefer a smoother typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience, suitable for most users looking for a comfortable and approachable switch. While the MX Silent Red may provide a bit of friction when pressed, the Sky V3 offers a smoother and more consistent feel. Again, the decision between the two will come down to individual preferences regarding the tactile feedback and sensation during typing.
Taking into account the subjective qualities of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Dareu Sky V3 switches, it's clear that both options have their strengths in terms of sound and feel. The MX Silent Red excels in providing a quieter and deeper sound profile, while the Sky V3 offers a neutral and subtle sound experience. In terms of feel, the MX Silent Red may have a textured sensation, whereas the Sky V3 provides a milder and more consistent typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance. If you prefer a quieter, deeper sound with a textured feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red may be the ideal choice. Conversely, if you prefer a neutral, subtle sound with a smoother typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and will provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you are looking for a keyboard switch that operates silently and provides a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, then the MX Silent Red is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral, subdued sound with a mild typing experience that offers a safe middle-ground zone, the Dareu Sky V3 may be more suited to your needs. Consider your typing environment and personal preferences to choose the switch that best fits your typing style. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and it's up to you to decide which one aligns best with your preferences.
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