Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky V3 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Semi-Silent Linear is praised for its innovative design, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound, offering a silky smooth typing experience characterized as subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. On the other hand, the Sky V3 from Dareu is known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a balance between comfort and precision, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals characterized as neutral, subdued, and mild. While both switches have their strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky V3, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, despite these similarities, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the switches may lead to variations in sound when typing, as the material's stiffness can impact the resonant quality differently in each switch.
On the other hand, the housing materials differ in the bottom housing, with the Semi-Silent Linear featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Sky V3 utilizing the same material. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The utilization of nylon in the bottom housing of the switches will play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, impacting the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, while both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky V3 share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, the differences in their nylon bottom housings will lead to variations in sound and feel when typing. The choice of different materials for the bottom housing allows for unique characteristics in each switch, with the softer nature of nylon creating a distinct sound profile. Despite these differences, users can expect a similar level of aesthetic appeal and RGB lighting compatibility from both switches, thanks to the common use of polycarbonate in their top housings.
Weight
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has an actuation force of 40 grams. The actuation force of the Semi-Silent Linear is not specified, while the bottom out force of the Sky V3 is unknown. In terms of weight, the Sky V3 is lighter due to its lower actuation force compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. The actuation force is important for determining how much pressure is needed to type, while the bottom out force is crucial for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Sky V3, while those who enjoy a heavier push may opt for the Semi-Silent Linear.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Dareu Sky V3 with a travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear switch may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Sky V3 switch may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference could impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
In terms of sound, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches both offer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. The Semi-Silent Linear provides a subdued sound, which is more dampened and subtle, while the Sky V3 offers a similar subdued sound but not completely silent. When considering sound, it's important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Semi-Silent Linear and the Sky V3 are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that the typing feel is gentle and approachable to most users, falling in a safe middle-ground zone. The Semi-Silent Linear switch is further characterized as snappy and buttery, offering a super responsive typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the Sky V3 does not have additional descriptors but shares the mild typing experience quality.
In conclusion, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches provide similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile with a subdued sound signature, as well as a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable. Whether you choose the Semi-Silent Linear or the Sky V3, you can expect a comfortable and precise typing experience that caters to a wide range of typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference and specific typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 switch, it's important to consider your preferences and typing environment. If you value a quiet typing experience with a subtle sound signature, the Semi-Silent Linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom out force and semi-silent operation make it a great option for those who prefer a more subdued switch. On the other hand, if you prioritize a neutral sound profile and a comfortable typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 switch would be more suitable. With its medium-light weight and mild feel, the Sky V3 offers a balanced typing experience that caters to a wide range of users. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences and needs to ensure that you have the best typing experience possible.
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