TTC Neptune vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the TTC Neptune and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Neptune and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The TTC Neptune stands out with its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth and almost frictionless typing experience, coupled with a springy resistance that offers a textured pleasure akin to chewy delights like mochi. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 utilizes POK material in its top housing to produce a deeper sound signature that complements its smooth linear action, resulting in a rich and satisfying typing experience. While the Neptune is described as 'buttery' and 'muted', the Sky V4 is characterized as 'thocky' and 'bouncy'. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
41g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Neptune and the Dareu Sky V4 both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Neptune's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, while the Sky V4's POK top housing provides a smooth and clacky sound with exceptional durability. In contrast, the Neptune's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Sky V4's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and durability in their housing materials.
The POM top housing of the Neptune and the POK top housing of the Sky V4 represent contrasting approaches to sound production. While the POM material of the Neptune focuses on creating a pleasing and unique sound profile, the POK material of the Sky V4 emphasizes smoothness, clackiness, and durability. Similarly, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Neptune and the nylon bottom housing of the Sky V4 offer distinct sound profiles, with polycarbonate being stiffer and creating a clearer sound, while nylon produces a softer sound with more absorption. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Despite their differences, the TTC Neptune and the Dareu Sky V4 both aim to provide a high-quality typing experience through their housing materials. Whether it's the sharp and clear sound of polycarbonate in the Neptune or the smooth and durable sound of POK in the Sky V4, each switch offers a unique auditory experience. Additionally, the emphasis on durability in the POK material of the Sky V4 and the wear resistance of the nylon bottom housing showcase the commitment to long-lasting performance in both switches. Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Neptune and the Dareu Sky V4 play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of these mechanical switches.
Weight
The TTC Neptune linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Neptune requires 50 grams to fully press down, while the Sky V4 needs 55 grams. Both switches have a similar weight range, with the Neptune being on the lighter side and the Sky V4 falling into the medium-light category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Neptune for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those looking for a bit more resistance may opt for the Sky V4 for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Neptune linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch have slight differences in their travel distances. The Neptune has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sky V4 has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by many gamers for their fast response times. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance of the Sky V4 to feel too abrupt, while others may appreciate the slightly longer travel distance of the Neptune for a more satisfying keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its low-pitched, muted, and thocky sound profile. The low-pitched sound offers a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the muted characteristic keeps the typing noise refined and unobtrusive. The thocky nature of the switch provides a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is also described as thocky and low-pitched, offering a deep and satisfying sound with a bass-heavy tone. Both switches provide a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments. Overall, users can expect a rich and satisfying sound experience from both switches, with a slightly different emphasis on pitch and tone.
In terms of feel, the TTC Neptune linear switch is known for its buttery, gummy, and frictionless typing experience. The buttery sensation provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, while the gummy characteristic offers a unique bottoming-out sensation similar to a trampoline or gummy bear. The frictionless nature of the switch ensures an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance or friction. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation with lively key rebounds. While the Neptune offers a range of smooth and textured sensations, the Sky V4 focuses more on providing a dynamic and responsive typing experience. Overall, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and satisfying feel while typing, with a different emphasis on smoothness and responsiveness.
Taking all the available information into account, the TTC Neptune linear switch and Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Neptune excels in providing a harmonious balance of smoothness, texture, and muted sound, the Sky V4 focuses on delivering a rich and satisfying sound with a bouncy and responsive typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Neptune leaning towards a textured and refined typing experience, while the Sky V4 emphasizes dynamic feedback and deep sound tones. Ultimately, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches, with slight variations in sound pitch, texture, and feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Neptune linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the characteristics of each to match your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light bottom-out force and a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience with a muted sound signature, the TTC Neptune would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and a deeper, rich sound signature with a smooth linear action, the Dareu Sky V4 switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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