Outemu Brown vs. Dareu Sky V3

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Sky V3, a linear switch. The Outemu Brown switch is best known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is celebrated for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it a favorite among enthusiasts and professionals for its balance of comfort and precision. While the Outemu Brown switch offers a tactile typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 switch provides a smoother, more linear feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Brown Tactile

Dareu Sky V3 Linear

$3.10 per 10

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and Dareu Sky V3 switches, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. As a result, they both produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while the top housings are similar in material and sound characteristics, the nylon bottom housing of the Brown switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch also features a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities to the Brown switch.

Despite the similarities in the top housing material of polycarbonate between the Outemu Brown and Dareu Sky V3 switches, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall sound profile, with the Brown switch providing a duller and rounder sound due to nylon's capacity to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This contrasts with the emphasis on deeper and fuller sound elicited by the nylon bottom housing of the Sky V3 switch. Therefore, while the top housing may have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.

In essence, the choice of housing materials for switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and tactile feedback experienced by users. Both the Outemu Brown and Dareu Sky V3 switches offer unique combinations of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials that contribute to their distinctive sound characteristics. While the use of polycarbonate in the top housing provides a sharper sound profile, the nylon bottom housing offers different levels of sound absorption and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials creates a customized typing experience for users based on their preferences for sound and feel.

Weight

The Outemu Brown tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 53 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch with 40 grams, making the Sky V3 lighter in this aspect. However, the Brown has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams while the bottom out force of the Sky V3 is unknown. In terms of weight, the Brown switch is heavier overall with both actuation and bottom out forces being higher. The actuation force of a switch is crucial for determining the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures how much pressure is required to fully press the key. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Sky V3 for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may favor the heavier forces of the Brown for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing style and preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom when using either switch. Therefore, there is no significant difference in the travel distance between the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, as both offer a 4 mm travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Brown switch is known for a subtle and somewhat quiet typing experience, with a moderate sound level that is not too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is praised for its neutral sound signature, providing a balanced and versatile sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of typing preferences. Both switches offer a sound profile that is acceptable for various environments, whether you are typing at home or in a professional setting. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also depend on the keyboard construction and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the Outemu Brown switch is recognized for its tactile feedback, providing a noticeable bump during actuation that gives typists a tactile response to their key presses. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, with a gentle and approachable feel that is suitable for most users. The Sky V3 switch strikes a balance between comfort and precision, catering to both enthusiasts and professionals with its versatile feel.

Overall, while the Outemu Brown switch and Dareu Sky V3 switch differ in their sound and feel characteristics, both switches offer a reliable and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a tactile switch like the Brown or a linear switch like the Sky V3, you can expect similar levels of satisfaction in terms of quality and performance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Brown tactile switch or the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a tactile feedback with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a slightly more pronounced sound, then the Outemu Brown switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth linear switch with a neutral sound signature, medium-light weight, and a more subdued typing experience, then the Dareu Sky V3 switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky V3 Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more