Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Dareu Sky V3 mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and needs. The MX Speed Silver is ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and rapid response, with its linear action and low spring resistance allowing for instant triggering, which is crucial in competitive gaming scenarios. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches are praised for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a comfortable typing experience while maintaining precision for a variety of typing styles. Both switches offer distinct characteristics—the MX Speed Silver being textured, thocky, and low-pitched, and the Dareu Sky V3 being neutral, subdued, and mild. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right 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
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Overall, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Dareu Sky V3 both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, where they differ is in the top housing material. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, while the Sky V3 boasts a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material of the Sky V3 produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who prioritize clear and resonant sound quality.
In terms of aesthetics, the Dareu Sky V3's polycarbonate top housing is favored for its translucency, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize RGB lighting effects. The clarity of the polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall look of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing may not offer the same visual appeal, but it still provides a dependable and classic switch housing material known for its deep sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials depends on personal preferences for sound quality and visual aesthetics.
Despite their differences in top housing material, both the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Dareu Sky V3 offer a solid typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on both keyboards a satisfying experience. Whether you prefer the duller and rounder sound of nylon found in the MX Speed Silver, or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Sky V3, both keyboards offer quality options for discerning users looking for a reliable and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver makes it more suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming use, as it requires less effort to press the keys. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Sky V3 provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and whether a lighter or heavier touch is desired.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The MX Speed Silver offers a shorter travel distance compared to the Sky V3, making it a good option for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Sky V3's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, delivering a deep and rich sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is acclaimed for its neutral and subdued sound, offering a more moderate and dampened sound experience. Both switches provide distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the MX Speed Silver offering a more pronounced and bass-heavy tone, while the Sky V3 delivers a more subtle and gentle sound.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, providing users with a noticeable friction when pressed. This texture can be preferred by some users for its unique feel, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switch offers a mild typing experience, characterized by a gentle feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches provide different tactile experiences that cater to varying preferences, with the MX Speed Silver offering a more textured feel, while the Sky V3 provides a smoother and approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Dareu Sky V3 switches offer unique sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The MX Speed Silver excels in providing a rapid and responsive typing experience with its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, as well as its textured feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is celebrated for its neutral and subdued sound, medium-light weight, and mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing speed, users can choose between these two switches to achieve similar or distinct results in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider the specific needs of your typing or gaming experience. If you prioritize speed and instantaneous response, the MX Speed Silver is the way to go with its lightning-fast actuation and low spring resistance, ideal for competitive gaming where every millisecond matters. On the other hand, if you value a balanced typing experience with a neutral sound profile and comfortable feel, the Dareu Sky V3 switch provides a versatile option that caters to both enthusiasts and professionals. Ultimately, your choice should align with your preferences and usage scenarios, ensuring that you get the most out of your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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