Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Purple Sakura is a tactile switch known for its snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance with its pronounced tactility without being overpowering. Typing on the Purple Sakura yields a mild and neutral sound signature, making it a popular choice for those seeking a tactile typing experience categorized as buttery, mild, neutral, and snappy. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 stands out for its use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that enhances its smooth linear action. Typists can enjoy a rich and satisfying typing experience with this switch, noted for its thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy characteristics. While these general pointers provide insight into the qualities of each switch, it is important to delve deeper into their specific features to determine the best option for individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Dareu Sky V4, we can see that they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. However, the Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Sky V4's POK top housing focuses more on smoothness and durability. While both materials offer their own advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Purple Sakura and the Sky V4 incorporate nylon for this component. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Given that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel, with slight variations depending on the overall design and construction of the switches.
In conclusion, while the Purple Sakura and the Sky V4 share similarities in their choice of nylon bottom housing, they differ in their approach to the top housing material. The Purple Sakura's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4's POK top housing prioritizes smoothness and durability, providing a clacky and long-lasting typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to individual preferences in terms of sound profile, feel, and overall build quality.
Weight
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Purple Sakura requires 60 grams while the Sky V4 only needs 55 grams, making the Sky V4 slightly lighter in this aspect. The actuation force of both switches falls into the medium range, providing a good balance between typing feedback and ease of use. In contrast, the bottom out force of the Sky V4 is considered medium-light, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Sky V4 has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. For those who value a quicker response time and prefer a shallower travel distance, the Purple Sakura would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial keypress feel may lean towards the Dareu Sky V4 with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different tactile experiences that cater to varying preferences, with the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura providing a faster response, while the longer travel distance of the Sky V4 offers a more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch offers a neutral sound profile that is not too loud or too soft, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch produces a thocky sound with a deep and rich tone, providing a satisfying auditory experience. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference regarding sound profile, with the Sakura switch being more versatile and the Sky V4 offering a deeper and more pronounced sound.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switch provides a buttery and mild typing experience, with a snappy response that makes typing feel fluid and effortless. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy feel with spring-like feedback, giving keys a lively rebound when pressed. The Sakura switch offers a more balanced and approachable typing experience, while the Sky V4 switch provides a more energetic and responsive feel.
Overall, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and Dareu Sky V4 switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sakura switch provides a neutral sound profile with a buttery and mild typing experience, making it suitable for a wide range of users. In contrast, the Sky V4 switch offers a thocky sound with a bouncy feel, providing a deeper and more lively typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch or the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a moderate bottom out force and a tactile bump that strikes a delicate balance, the Purple Sakura would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, a smooth linear action, and a deeper sound signature, the Sky V4 might be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what type of typing experience you are looking for before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your individual preferences and how you want your typing experience to be.
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