Huano Sakura vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Huano Sakura and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Huano Sakura and the Dareu Sky V3 both present compelling options for enthusiasts and casual users alike. The Huano Sakura switches are renowned for their feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making them highly suitable for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. This linear switch provides a smooth keystroke that many users find appealing for day-to-day tasks. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switches strike a chord with their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, which appeals to a wide array of typing preferences. Their balanced characteristics offer both comfort and precision, allowing for an enjoyable typing experience whether you’re gaming or working. Each switch embodies its own strengths, with the Sakura focusing on a light feel for long-term use, while the Sky V3 emphasizes versatility and neutrality in sound. 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
35g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Huano Sakura and the Dareu Sky V3 exhibit distinct characteristics in their top housing materials, which both influence the overall sound and performance of the switches. The Sakura utilizes POK (polyketone) for its top housing, renowned for its smoothness due to a low coefficient of friction of 0.04, making it one of the slickest materials used in switch construction. This choice results in a more clacky feel and sound because of the material's unique durability, which far exceeds that of POM and Nylon in terms of resistance to wear and shock. In contrast, the Sky V3's top housing is made of polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate not only enhances sound clarity but also supports RGB lighting setups, making it an aesthetically appealing choice. Therefore, while both types of switch may offer different sound experiences, they both aim to create a distinct auditory feedback that caters to different preferences.
When examining the bottom housing, both the Huano Sakura and the Dareu Sky V3 feature nylon as their material choice. Certified as a classic for switch housings, nylon contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. This characteristic enables both switches to deliver a rounded sound that is pleasing to typists who prefer a more muted, yet rich acoustic experience. Since both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a similar auditory sensation when typing, regardless of the variation in the top housing materials. This commonality ensures that they will engage with the switches in a manner that feels familiar, even while the top housing influences the overall clarity of the sound upon key release.
In summary, the housing materials of the Huano Sakura and the Dareu Sky V3 differ significantly for the top sections, promoting unique sound profiles and tactile experiences, while they align perfectly on the bottom housing with nylon. The differing materials in the top housing of both switches allow for a playful exploration of sound and feel, catering to diverse user preferences. Nevertheless, the shared nylon bottom ensures a more consistent output in terms of sound and tactile feedback, bridging the gap between the two designs and enabling users to enjoy the combined advantage of both materials in a complementary fashion. As such, even with varying top housing, the underlying nylon base fosters an overall cohesive experience.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Sakura linear switch with its actuation force of 35 grams and bottom out force of 45 grams to the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, which has an actuation force of 40 grams and an unspecified bottom out force, we can observe some notable differences regarding feel and performance. The Sakura is the lighter option, making it more suited for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, as the lower actuation force can help reduce finger fatigue. In contrast, the Sky V3, with a higher actuation force of 40 grams, provides a slightly stronger push feel, which could be preferable for users seeking a more tactile experience. However, without the bottom out force available for the Sky V3, we cannot draw direct comparisons for that metric. Overall, if users are looking for a lighter switch, the Huano Sakura would be the better choice, while those who prefer a heftier feel might lean towards the Dareu Sky V3.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Sakura features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sky V3 offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Huano Sakura provides a shorter key press, which may appeal to gamers and users looking for quicker response times. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3, with its longer travel distance, may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing the keys, offering a satisfying depth that some users find desirable. Therefore, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Sakura would be the ideal choice, whereas if you prefer a deeper tactile experience, the Sky V3 would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Sakura has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura for $3.29.
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.
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 Huano Sakura linear switch has a medium acoustic profile, which makes it suitable for extended typing sessions without being too distracting. This provides a balance that allows for a pleasant auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a neutral sound signature that is also characterized as subdued. This means that while the Sky V3's sound profile is moderate, it produces a dampened sound when pressed, offering a subtle auditory experience that is not overly pronounced. Both switches cater well to diverse environments, whether in a home office or a shared workspace.
In terms of feel, the Sakura switch is designed to provide a feather-light touch, which can significantly reduce finger fatigue during long sessions. This makes it an appealing choice for those who prioritize a light and effortless typing experience. Conversely, the Sky V3 switch is labeled as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience without the pronounced characteristics found in other switches. This mild sensation ensures that users of varying experience levels will find it approachable and comfortable. While both switches aim to provide a comfortable feel, the Sakura’s ultra-light touch might cater to those seeking an even lighter option than the Sky V3.
Overall, both the Huano Sakura and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches provide solid sound and feel profiles suitable for a range of typing preferences, though they each have their unique qualities. The Sakura is particularly notable for its feather-light actuation, making it ideal for prolonged use, while the Sky V3 strikes a balance with its neutral sound and mild tactile feel. Choosing between them will largely depend on personal preferences regarding weight and sound characteristics, but both are well-equipped to deliver an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch ultimately depends on your typing style and personal preferences. If you favor a feather-light touch and appreciate the comfort of extended typing sessions, the Sakura is an excellent option due to its 45-gram bottom-out force and medium acoustics. It’s particularly suited for those who value a light feel while typing, making it ideal for casual typing or work environments where you may spend extended hours at the keyboard. On the other hand, if you're looking for a balanced switch that offers a neutral sound signature and a mild typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 will likely serve you well. Its medium-light weight and subdued sound profile cater to enthusiasts and professionals alike, providing versatility for various settings, whether at home or in an office. Ultimately, if you prioritize lightness and a more engaging acoustic experience, go for the Sakura; if you seek a well-rounded switch that balances comfort and precision, the Sky V3 is your best bet.
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