Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black and Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique features for different typing preferences. The Dustproof Black is a linear switch that is best known for its durability and resistance to dust and debris. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch is also a linear switch but is distinguished by the innovative use of POK material in its top housing, providing typists with a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action. While the Dustproof Black may be preferred for its reliability, the Sky V4 stands out for its rich and 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Dareu Sky V4, we see that both switches utilize a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material in the Dustproof Black creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Sky V4's POK top housing offers smooth and durable switches with exceptional wear resistance and shock resistance. While both materials have their unique strengths, they ultimately contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches in different ways.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches feature a nylon material. Nylon is known for creating deeper and fuller sound profiles in switches due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The use of nylon in both the Dustproof Black and Sky V4 ensures a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound quality. Despite the same material choice, each switch may still offer slightly different sound characteristics based on their individual design and construction.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can greatly impact the typing experience. While the Dustproof Black and Sky V4 share similarities in their polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings, the nuances of each material's properties contribute to unique sound profiles and typing feel. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound or a smoother and clackier typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and overall performance.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch. The Dustproof Black requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 80 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier switch. In contrast, the Sky V4 only needs 45 grams to actuate and 55 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. The heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Dustproof Black provide a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the lighter force required by the Sky V4 allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the heavy and substantial feel of the Dustproof Black or the lighter, more comfortable typing experience of the Sky V4.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Dustproof Black offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Sky V4's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer differences in travel distance that can cater to different preferences - those seeking a deeper key press experience may prefer the Dustproof Black, while those looking for quicker responses may opt for the Sky V4. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for key press depth 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 Dustproof Black 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 Outemu Dustproof Black switch does not have a specific sound or feel associated with it, making it a bit of a mystery in terms of user experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is known for its deeper and thocky sound profile, offering typists a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. This can enhance the overall typing experience and make it more enjoyable for users who appreciate a rich sound while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Black switch does not have any specific descriptors to go off of, leaving its tactile feedback up for interpretation by users. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is known for its bouncy feel, providing typists with a spring-like sensation and lively feedback when the keys are pressed. This can give users a more dynamic and responsive typing experience, adding an extra level of comfort and satisfaction to their typing sessions.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Black and Dareu Sky V4 switches offer different subjective qualities that can cater to different preferences amongst mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Dustproof Black switch remains a bit of a wildcard in terms of sound and feel, the Sky V4 switch stands out for its deeper, thocky sound signature and bouncy tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a richer sound or a more dynamic feel, either of these switches could provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers to explore. As with any switch, the final user experience can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps used, and typing technique.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch or the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with no specific standout feature, the Dustproof Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smoother linear action with a lighter bottom out force and are intrigued by the innovative POK material used in the Sky V4's top housing, then the Sky V4 switch might be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a deeper and thocky sound profile along with a bouncy feel, the Sky V4 switch could provide a more satisfying typing experience for you. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. So, consider your priorities and preferences carefully before making your decision.
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