Outemu Red Panda vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red Panda and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it's clear that each offers unique benefits for different typing preferences. The Red Panda is known for its light-medium tactility, paired with a distinct raindrop-like bottom-out sound and clackier top-out sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience with a touch of feedback. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out for its smooth linear action and deeper sound signature, thanks to the innovative use of POK material in its top housing, offering a rich and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a quieter and more fluid 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
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 Red Panda and the Dareu Sky V4, one notable difference is the top housing. The Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Sky V4 uses a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, providing a clacky and durable typing experience. While both materials offer unique qualities, the polycarbonate of the Red Panda focuses on sound resonance, while the POK of the Sky V4 emphasizes smoothness and durability.
On the other hand, when looking at the bottom housing of both switches, we find a common ground in the use of nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Both the Red Panda and the Sky V4 benefit from this classic switch housing material, resulting in a similar typing experience that elicits a rounder and more muted sound compared to harder plastics. Thus, in terms of the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience from both switches.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While the Red Panda excels in creating a sharp and resonant sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Dareu Sky V4 focuses on providing a smooth, clacky typing experience with its POK top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, showcasing how the choice of housing materials can impact the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that the Red Panda requires a slightly heavier touch. The actuation force of the Red Panda is 50 grams, while the Sky V4 is slightly lighter at 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Red Panda requires 60 grams, whereas the Sky V4 is lighter at 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range, making them suitable for users who prefer a moderate typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Sky V4, while users who prefer a slightly heavier feel may prefer the Red Panda. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Sky V4 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda. The Red Panda's 3.3 mm travel distance offers a good balance between responsiveness and key depth, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Sky V4's 3.6 mm travel distance provides a bit more key depth, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial press when typing. Overall, both switches offer similar results but cater to different preferences in terms of travel distance.
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 Panda comes in at $3.40 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 Panda tactile switch is best known for its thocky sound profile, which produces a deep and satisfying noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch also offers a thocky sound, but with a deeper and more bass-heavy tone, complementing its smooth linear action. Both switches provide a rich auditory experience, making typing a pleasure whether you prefer a light tactility like the Red Panda or a smooth linear feel like the Sky V4. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of sound profile you find most enjoyable.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a mild typing experience with a light-medium amount of tactility, appealing to a wide range of users with its approachable qualities. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that gives keys a lively feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience in terms of feel, catering to individuals with varying preferences in key feedback and actuation force requirements. Whether you prefer a gentler typing experience like the Red Panda or a more responsive and bouncy feel like the Sky V4, both switches have something unique to offer.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that they each have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While both switches provide a thocky sound profile, the Red Panda offers a lighter tactility compared to the smooth linear action of the Sky V4. Additionally, the Red Panda provides a mild typing experience suitable for a wide range of users, while the Sky V4 offers a bouncy sensation that gives keys a lively rebound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and light-medium tactility, along with a bassier bottom-out sound and clackier top-out sound, then the Red Panda may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, a smooth linear action with a deep sound signature, and a bouncy feel, then the Sky V4 could be the better option. Consider your typing experience, sound preference, and desired key feel when making your decision between these two switches.
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