Kailh Plum vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Plum and Dareu Sky V3 stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Plum is a tactile switch that offers a unique combination of weightiness and tactility without a pronounced bump, making it quite distinctive in the mechanical keyboard market. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 is a linear switch known for its neutral sound profile and medium-light weight, providing a balanced typing experience suitable for various preferences. While the Plum is praised for its heft and subtle tactile feedback, the Sky V3 garners acclaim for its comfort and precision. 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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 Kailh Plum and Dareu Sky V3 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the overall resonance of the switch. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches intended to be used with RGB lighting. While both switches share this feature, the difference may lie in the design and aesthetics of the switches themselves.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Kailh Plum and Dareu Sky V3 employ nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound compared to stiffer plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. This material choice impacts the overall typing experience, providing a different tactile feel and sound profile from the top housing material. Despite the similarities in using nylon for the bottom housing, slight nuances in design and construction may influence the typing feel of each switch.
When comparing the two switches, it is important to consider the role of each housing material in shaping the overall typing experience. While both switches share polycarbonate and nylon housing, the distribution of these materials in the switch design can lead to subtle differences in sound and feel. The impact of the bottom housing on bottom-out sound and feel contrasts with the influence of the top housing on sound when releasing a key, highlighting the importance of a balanced housing combination for a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall feel and performance of each keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences for users. The Plum switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing sensation. In contrast, the Sky V3 requires 40 grams of force to actuate, offering a lighter touch for keystrokes. This means that the Plum switch is heavier to press down fully, while the Sky V3 is lighter to trigger a keystroke. Some users may prefer the Plum switch for a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the Sky V3 for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Plum being on the shorter side and the Sky V3 being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Plum switch for its faster response times due to its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more robust feel may opt for the Dareu Sky V3 switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, both the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound level and actuation force, making them suitable for a variety of typing preferences and environments. Additionally, the Sky V3 is noted for having a subdued sound, providing a more dampened sound when pressed compared to most switches. However, ultimately the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Plum and the Sky V3 switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making them approachable to a wide range of users. Additionally, the Plum switch is noted for having a stepped feel, which refers to a two-stage tactile feedback sensation. On the other hand, the Sky V3 does not have this specific designation, but it still falls under the category of providing a mild typing experience.
Overall, both the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both provide a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, making them versatile options for various typing preferences. Whether you choose the Plum for its unique tactile characteristics or the Sky V3 for its widespread acclaim among enthusiasts and professionals, you can expect to achieve comparable results in terms of sound and feel with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique tactile experience without a huge bump, the Plum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile, medium-light weight, and widespread acclaim for comfort and precision, the Sky V3 switch is worth considering. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various typing preferences, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user. Ultimately, the decision between the Plum and Sky V3 switches will depend on your personal preferences for tactile feedback, bottom out force, and typing experience.
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