Outemu Milk Blue vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Blue and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and the Dareu Sky V4 offer distinct characteristics catering to different preferences. The Milk Blue is a clicky switch, providing a tactile bump and audible click with each key press. On the other hand, the Sky V4 is a linear switch, known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes. The Milk Blue is best known for its satisfying click sound, while the Sky V4 distinguishes itself through the innovative employment of POK material in its top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature. Those who prefer a more tactile and audible typing experience may lean towards the Milk Blue, while the Sky V4 appeals to typists seeking a smooth and thocky 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
N/A
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 Milk Blue and the Dareu Sky V4, it is interesting to note that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. The Milk Blue's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. Conversely, the Sky V4's POK top housing is known for its smooth and clacky sound, as well as its exceptional durability. While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the Milk Blue is geared towards a clearer and sharper sound, while the Sky V4 provides a smoother and more durable typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Milk Blue and the Sky V4 opt for nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches aim to provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound. Typing on switches equipped with nylon bottom housings will likely result in a deeper and more muted sound compared to other materials, contributing to a more soothing typing experience.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Blue and the Dareu Sky V4 differ in terms of their top housings – polycarbonate for the Milk Blue and POK for the Sky V4 – they both share a common ground with nylon for the bottom housing. This ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with the Milk Blue offering a sharper sound profile from its polycarbonate top housing and the Sky V4 providing a smoother and more durable typing experience with its POK material. Both switches benefit from the sound-absorbing properties of the nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound for those seeking a more subdued typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Milk Blue requires a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sky V4's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Sky V4 is heavier at 55 grams, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force information is unavailable. This means that the Sky V4 may provide a slightly lighter actuation but a heavier bottom out experience compared to the Milk Blue. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky V4 may be the preferred choice, especially for longer typing sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push may lean towards the Milk Blue for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Milk Blue offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences, with the Milk Blue offering a longer travel distance and the Sky V4 providing a slightly shorter one for those seeking quick actions. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 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 crisp and satisfying click sound, perfect for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, creating a more immersive typing experience with a smooth linear action. Both switches have unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, but the Milk Blue is more focused on a sharp click while the Sky V4 offers a deeper and richer sound.
In terms of feel, the Milk Blue switch provides a tactile bump and audible click upon actuation, giving typists a sense of confirmation with each keystroke. In comparison, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that enhances the typing experience with a lively feel and rebound effect. While the Milk Blue switch focuses on a tactile and clicky response, the Sky V4 switch prioritizes a smooth linear action with a bouncy feel, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Blue excels in providing a satisfying click sound and tactile feedback, appealing to those who enjoy a clicky typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out with its thocky sound profile and bouncy feel, creating a smooth and immersive typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a rewarding typing experience, with the Milk Blue focusing on a sharp click and tactile feedback, while the Sky V4 offers a deep and rich sound with a bouncy feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you enjoy a satisfying clicky sound and don't mind a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Milk Blue might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear action with a deeper sound profile and a medium-light bottom out force, the Dareu Sky V4 is worth considering. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to prioritize what feels best for you in terms of sound and feel when choosing between the two.
Mentioned in this article
