Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it's important to consider the key characteristics that make each switch stand out. The Dustproof Blue is best known for its clicky feedback, providing a tactile bump and audible click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sky V4 distinguishes itself with its use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action. While the Dustproof Blue offers a satisfying tactile experience, the Sky V4 provides a quiet and smooth 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
2.20 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 Blue and the Dareu Sky V4, it is clear that they both utilize different materials for their top housings. The Dustproof Blue employs polycarbonate, known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky V4 utilizes POK material, which is smooth, clacky, and exceptionally durable. While both materials offer unique qualities, polycarbonate is more likely to be used in switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while POK material boasts superior wear and shock resistance.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Dustproof Blue and the Sky V4 feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with nylon bottom housings. Despite the identical choice of material for the bottom housing, both switches may still offer slightly different sound profiles due to other factors such as spring weight and stem design.
Overall, while the top housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Dareu Sky V4 differ, they both utilize nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split qualities of each housing material impact the switch experience differently, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, the actuation force of the Dustproof Blue is slightly heavier at 50 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Sky V4. The bottom out force of the Dustproof Blue is also heavier at 65 grams, while the Sky V4 is lighter at 55 grams. The Dustproof Blue provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Sky V4 is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Blue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Sky V4. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience for some users. Those who prefer a more responsive and shallower feel when pressing keys might lean towards the Sky V4 with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and deeper key press may find the longer travel distance of the Dustproof Blue more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Dustproof Blue switch is known for its lively clicky noise, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch offers a deeper and more thocky sound profile due to its unique POK material top housing. The low-pitched sound of the Sky V4 contributes to a rich and pleasant typing experience, contrasting with the crisp click of the Dustproof Blue. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches comes down to individual preference, with the Dustproof Blue offering a more traditional clicky sound, while the Sky V4 provides a deeper and more nuanced auditory experience.
As for feel, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a tactile and responsive typing experience, with a bouncy feedback that enhances the overall typing feel. This bouncy sensation gives typists a sense of rebound and responsiveness with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch is described as having a smooth linear action, providing a consistent and fluid typing experience without the tactile bump found in clicky switches like the Dustproof Blue. The lack of tactile feedback in the Sky V4 allows for a seamless and uninterrupted typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a smoother key press without the additional resistance of a tactile bump.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. If you prefer a crisp clicky sound with tactile feedback and a bouncy typing sensation, the Dustproof Blue may be the better option for you. However, if you appreciate a deeper and thocky sound profile with a smooth linear action and a bouncy feedback, the Sky V4 switch could be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so exploring and trying out both options may be beneficial in finding the best switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of typing experience. If you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Dustproof Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and linear action with a medium-light bottom out force, along with a deeper and more satisfying sound signature, then the Sky V4 switch with its innovative POK material top housing might be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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