Bsun Olive vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Bsun Olive and the Dareu Sky V4. The Bsun Olive is a tactile switch known for its unique all-POM housing that delivers a resonant, deep sound, along with pronounced tactile feedback and a sharp bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 is a linear switch that utilizes POK material in its top housing to provide a smoother typing experience with a deeper sound signature. While the Olive offers an invigorating and sharp typing experience, the Sky V4 provides a more neutral and bouncy feel. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences, 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
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Olive and Dareu Sky V4 both feature unique top housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. While the Olive uses a POM top housing known for its deep and relatively muted sound, the Sky V4 utilizes a POK top housing that offers smooth, clacky, and durable characteristics. The POK material in the Sky V4 is specifically designed for switches, boasting impressive wear resistance and shock resistance compared to POM. In terms of sound, the POK top housing is likely to provide a more pronounced and crisp typing experience compared to the POM top housing of the Olive.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing materials of the Olive and Sky V4, they differ in their properties and effects on sound. The POM bottom housing of the Olive, similar to its top housing, contributes to a pleasing and unique deep sound profile. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Sky V4 is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This difference in bottom housing materials may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Sky V4 potentially offering a richer sound profile compared to the Olive.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Bsun Olive and Dareu Sky V4 impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the POM top and bottom housings of the Olive create a cohesive sound profile that is deep and muted, the POK top housing and nylon bottom housing of the Sky V4 provide a smoother, clackier, and more durable typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches are likely to offer a satisfying typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key. As such, each switch offers its own unique blend of properties for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to enjoy.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we find that both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Olive has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Sky V4's 55 grams. This means that the Olive offers a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Sky V4, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, users who prefer a heavier keystroke may find the Olive more suitable for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, which is preferred by gamers for quicker response times. The Olive has a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those seeking a more responsive typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 offers a slightly longer travel distance, which some users may find provides a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 Bsun Olive tactile switch is best known for its resonant and deep sound that is distinctively satisfying. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a deeper sound signature with a thocky quality that complements its smooth linear action. Both switches provide a rich and satisfying typing experience, but the Olive may offer a slightly more pronounced sound due to its tactile nature. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is characterized by its pronounced tactile feedback and sharp bottom-out, offering an invigorating typing sensation. The switch is described as accented, sharp, and snappy, providing a tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is noted for its bouncy feel, offering a spring-like sensation that gives keys a lively rebound when pressed. While the Olive switch offers a more tactile and pronounced feedback, the Sky V4 switch provides a smoother and more elastic typing experience.
In conclusion, the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Olive switch delivers a resonant and pronounced tactile feedback with a deep sound, while the Sky V4 switch provides a smooth linear action with a bouncy feel. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, and the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for a more tactile or linear typing experience. Whether you choose the Olive or the Sky V4, you can expect a quality typing experience that meets your specific needs and preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force and are looking for a switch that offers a unique tactile feedback with a resonant, deep sound, then the Bsun Olive switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom-out force and enjoy a smooth linear action with a deep sound profile that complements your typing experience, then the Dareu Sky V4 switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.