Outemu Milk Blue vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue, a clicky switch, and the Dareu Sky V3, a linear switch, stand out as popular options with distinct features. The Milk Blue is known for its satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3 is celebrated for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. While the Milk Blue offers a more tactile and audible typing experience, the Sky V3 provides a smoother and quieter 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
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
The Outemu Milk Blue and the Dareu Sky V3 both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Milk Blue uses nylon while the Sky V3 also uses nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate.
The differences in bottom housing materials between the Milk Blue and the Sky V3 can affect the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Milk Blue's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the polycarbonate top housing. On the other hand, the Sky V3's nylon bottom housing also offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that when pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will affect the sound when letting go of a key.
In conclusion, while both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the differences in bottom housing material between the Outemu Milk Blue and the Dareu Sky V3 can lead to variations in sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper one, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. While the bottom out force for both switches is unknown, the Milk Blue switch is likely to have a heavier bottom out force due to its higher actuation force. The Milk Blue switch would provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Sky V3 switch would be preferable for those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the two switches, their travel distances are identical, resulting in a similar key feel when pressed. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel before actuation. Additionally, since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect similar responsiveness and feedback when typing on keyboards equipped with either switch. In conclusion, whether choosing the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch or the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, users can rely on getting matched results in terms of travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V3 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 V3 for $4.76.
The Outemu Milk 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 Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and clicky sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is recognized for its neutral and subdued sound, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. Depending on personal preference, the Milk Blue will appeal to those who enjoy a more tactile and pronounced sound, while the Sky V3 will cater to individuals seeking a quieter and more understated typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch offers a tactile and responsive typing experience, with a noticeable tactile bump and audible click upon actuation. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch provides a mild and gentle typing feel, ensuring a smoother keystroke without the tactile bump present in clicky switches. Both switches fall within the medium-light weight category, offering a comfortable typing experience that strikes a balance between actuation force and key travel distance.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch each have their unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Milk Blue excels in providing a loud and tactile typing experience, while the Sky V3 offers a more neutral and subdued approach. Depending on whether one prefers a clicky and tactile feedback or a smooth and linear keystroke, either switch can be a suitable choice for different typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide reliable performance and comfort, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a tactile bump for a satisfying typing experience, the Outemu Milk Blue switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, the Dareu Sky V3 switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. Remember to consider factors such as typing environment, noise level tolerance, and typing speed when choosing between these two switches. Happy typing!
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