Outemu Red vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Red and Dareu Sky V4 are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Red is a linear switch with a reputation for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out for its utilization of POK material in the top housing, producing a deeper sound and a satisfying typing experience. While the Red switch is best known for its simplicity and reliability, the Sky V4 offers a unique typing experience with its thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy characteristics. 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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 Red and the Dareu Sky V4, it is clear that both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing. This means that users can expect a similar experience in terms of the sound profile, as polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a great choice for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the Sky V4's POK top housing offers exceptional smoothness and durability, with a coefficient of friction higher than LY, making it one of the smoothest materials available.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Red and the Sky V4 utilize nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. This similarity in bottom housing material means that the typing experience in terms of sound profile between the Red and Sky V4 will likely be quite similar.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for both the Outemu Red and the Dareu Sky V4 plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material, with both opting for nylon. This divergence leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is more absorbent and duller. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch contributes to a unique typing experience that users can enjoy depending on their preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, both switches have relatively low actuation forces and bottom out forces compared to other switches on the market. The Outemu Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Dareu Sky V4, which has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. While both switches fall within the medium range, the Dareu Sky V4 is considered slightly lighter than the Outemu Red. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of typing or gaming, the Dareu Sky V4 may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier touch may find the Outemu Red to be more suitable. Regardless, both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience with similar actuation and bottom out forces, ensuring consistent and reliable performance for keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options when compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Red switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Sky V4 provides a slightly shorter distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky V4, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Red switch. 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 Red 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 Red linear switch is known for its neutrality, lacking any particular standout sound characteristic. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a unique thocky sound profile due to the POK material used in its top housing. The Sky V4 provides a deeper and more satisfying typing experience with a low-pitched tone that can enhance the overall feel of a typing session. Keep in mind that the sound produced by either switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, Outemu Red linear switches are described as having a certain feel not specified in the provided information. In contrast, Dareu Sky V4 linear switches are praised for their bouncy sensation, providing a lively and spring-like feedback when typing. This tactile sensation can contribute to a more engaging and responsive typing experience, making the Sky V4 an appealing choice for those who prioritize key feel.
Overall, the Outemu Red and Dareu Sky V4 linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Red switch may appeal to individuals seeking a more neutral sound with an unspecified feel, the Sky V4 switch stands out for its thocky sound profile and bouncy key feel. Depending on your personal preferences and typing style, you can expect a unique and enjoyable typing experience with either switch option. Remember to consider all available information, including sound, feel, and any additional features, when selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the bottom out force and sound preferences. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and enjoy a deeper, thocky sound profile with a unique POK material in the top housing, the Dareu Sky V4 may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and prioritize a more neutral sound profile, the Outemu Red switch could be the right choice. Additionally, if you prefer a bouncy feel when typing, the Dareu Sky V4 offers a unique experience with its spring-like feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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