Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow, a linear switch, and the Dareu Sky V4, also a linear switch, stand out as popular options. The Silent Yellow is best known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer minimal noise while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Sky V4 switch distinguishes itself through the innovative use of POK material in its top housing, producing a deeper sound signature that enhances the overall typing experience. While the Silent Yellow offers a more subdued typing experience, the Sky V4 provides a rich and satisfying feel with its smooth linear action and bouncy feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 Silent Yellow and the Dareu Sky V4, it is clear that they both have unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Sky V4's POK top housing provides a smooth and clacky sound with exceptional durability. Both materials have their own advantages, with polycarbonate being ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, and POK offering superior wear and shock resistance.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon's softer properties absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using this material. In this aspect, the Silent Yellow and Sky V4 share similarities in how the nylon bottom housing impacts the overall sound profile of the switch. This classic switch housing material offers a different tactile feel and sound experience compared to the top housing, adding depth and richness to the typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silent Yellow and Dareu Sky V4 housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired sound profile. Whether you prefer the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the smooth and clacky sound of POK, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. Whichever switch you choose, the combination of top and bottom housing materials will play a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, significant differences can be seen. The Silent Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sky V4 offers a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. The Silent Yellow's heavier forces may be preferred by users looking for a more definitive key press, while the Sky V4's lighter forces cater to those seeking a smoother and more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on the desired typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Silent Yellow offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sky V4. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness, whereas a 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it preferred by gamers for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the Sky V4 providing a quicker response, while the longer travel distance of the Silent Yellow offering a more traditional 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 Silent Yellow 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 Silent Yellow switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a unique thocky sound profile, thanks to the POK material used in its construction. This results in a deeper and richer sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct sound characteristics, with the Silent Yellow being quieter and the Sky V4 offering a more satisfying auditory feedback for typists.
Moving on to the tactile feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch maintains a silence-focused approach, resulting in a smooth and linear typing experience that some users find lacking in feedback. In comparison, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively sensation when typing. This bouncy feedback can enhance the typing rhythm and overall tactile experience, offering a more dynamic feel compared to the Silent Yellow switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Yellow and Dareu Sky V4 switches offer different sound and feel characteristics to suit varying preferences. While the Silent Yellow excels in providing a quiet typing environment, the Sky V4 stands out with its thocky sound and bouncy tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize a silent operation or a more dynamic typing experience, both switches can deliver satisfying results, ensuring that you can find the right fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing experience. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Silent Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force and a deeper sound signature with a unique POK material in its top housing, the Sky V4 switch could be the ideal option. Consider your typing habits, preferences for sound and feel, and overall typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct features and benefits for a satisfying typing experience.
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