Outemu Cream Pink vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Pink and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Pink and Dareu Sky V4 offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cream Pink is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch distinguishes itself through the innovative use of POK material in its top housing, providing a deeper sound signature and a bouncy feel. While the Cream Pink offers a straightforward typing experience, the Sky V4 provides a richer and more satisfying typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Pink and the Dareu Sky V4, it is clear that both switches offer a deep and full sound profile due to their nylon housing materials. While the Cream Pink uses nylon for both the top and bottom housings, the Sky V4 utilizes POK material for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The POK material in the Sky V4 contributes to a smoother typing experience and adds durability to the switches, thanks to its higher coefficient of friction and superior wear and shock resistance compared to nylon.
Despite the differences in the housing materials used for the top and bottom of the switches, both the Cream Pink and the Sky V4 offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The softer nylon material in the Cream Pink absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, while the POK material in the Sky V4 contributes to a smooth and clacky typing experience. Both switches provide a satisfying sound when typing, although the specific characteristics of the bottom and top housings may impact the overall feel of the switch when pressed or released.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Pink and Dareu Sky V4 play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The difference in materials, with the Cream Pink using nylon for both top and bottom and the Sky V4 incorporating POK for the top and nylon for the bottom, showcases the importance of material choice in switch design. Both switches offer a unique combination of sound absorption, smoothness, durability, and typing feel, making them suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking a customized typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Cream Pink linear switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Cream Pink requires a slightly heavier push to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Cream Pink also has a higher force of 65 grams compared to the Sky V4's 55 grams, indicating that it will feel heavier when fully pressed. The Cream Pink is therefore the heavier option between the two, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it a preferred choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress weight and typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch is 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches provide a satisfying amount of key travel, with the Cream Pink offering a more traditional distance and the Sky V4 offering a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the Sky V4 for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Cream Pink. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Cream Pink comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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
The Cream Pink and Sky V4 switches offer distinct sound profiles. The Cream Pink switch is known for a sound profile that is not well defined, making it difficult to pinpoint a specific characteristic. In contrast, the Sky V4 switch is described as thocky, neutral, and low-pitched, resulting in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. This difference in sound quality could appeal to users looking for a specific auditory experience while typing.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cream Pink's tactile feedback is unspecified, leaving users to explore and discover its unique feel for themselves. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch is defined as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively sensation when typing. This bouncy feel can add a level of responsiveness and feedback that some users may find enjoyable and engaging.
In conclusion, while both the Cream Pink and Sky V4 switches offer linear typing experiences, they each have their own distinct sound and feel characteristics. The Cream Pink switch's sound and feel qualities are not clearly defined, so users may need to physically try it out to fully appreciate its features. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch is highlighted by its thocky sound profile, smooth linear action, and bouncy feel, making it a compelling option for users seeking a deeper, more satisfying typing experience with noticeable feedback. Ultimately, users can expect to get similar results in terms of linear switch functionality from both options, but the distinguishing sound and feel qualities of the Sky V4 make it stand out for those looking for specific sensory experiences in mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Cream Pink would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams and enjoy a deeper sound signature with an innovative POK material top housing, then the Dareu Sky V4 would be the better option for you. Consider your typing preferences, desired sound profile, and preferred actuation force when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and needs.
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