Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky V4 both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Semi-Silent Linear is known for its whisper-quiet topping-out sound and clacky bottom-out sound, providing a smooth typing experience with a balanced feel. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out for its use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and a bouncy, low-pitched feel. While the Semi-Silent Linear offers a subdued and polished typing experience, the Sky V4 provides a thocky and satisfying feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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 V4, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This means that both switches will offer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, as polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and clarity in creating resonant sounds. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to both switches. Despite this similarity, it is important to note that the Sky V4's POK top housing is designed specifically for smoothness and durability, offering a different experience compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which allows it to absorb more sound and create a rounder, duller sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky V4 will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may differ slightly between the two switches due to their other housing materials being different.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky V4 share similarities in terms of using nylon for their bottom housing, they differ in their choice of top housing material. The polycarbonate top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear offers a clearer and more resonant sound profile, while the POK top housing of the Sky V4 prioritizes smoothness and durability. Both switches may provide a unique typing experience based on the combined qualities of their housing materials, showcasing how material choices can impact the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it is evident that they have differences that cater to different preferences. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an actuation force of None grams, making it unclear, and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter, and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Sky V4 would be the preferred choice, whereas those looking for a more substantial push feel may opt for the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches provide users with a variety of options to suit their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, slightly longer than the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by many users for increased responsiveness, particularly by gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. If you prefer a slightly longer travel distance for a more substantial feel when pressing the keys, the Jwick switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a slightly shorter travel distance for quicker response times, the Dareu switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, both switches offer similar benefits, and the choice between them may come down to personal preference in terms of 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 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
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued sound profile, with a whisper-quiet topping-out noise and a clacky bottom-out sound. It provides a neutral sound experience, suitable for various typing environments. In terms of feel, this switch is described as mild and offers a buttery typing experience, with a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is known for its thocky, deep, and satisfying sound signature. It has a low-pitched tone and also offers a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for different users. The feel of the Sky V4 is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation for a lively typing experience.
Overall, both switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Semi-Silent Linear excels in providing a subdued and smooth typing experience, while the Sky V4 stands out with its deep and rich sound profile and bouncy feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the Semi-Silent Linear for a quiet and silky smooth typing experience, or the Dareu Sky V4 for a satisfying and lively typing experience. In terms of sound, users can expect similar results in terms of neutrality, but the differences lie in the depth and pitch of the sound. When it comes to typing feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear offers a buttery and polished sensation, while the Dareu Sky V4 provides a bouncy and responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force (62 grams) and enjoy a typing experience that is subdued and neutral in sound, with a mild, snappy, buttery, or polished feel, then the Semi-Silent Linear may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force (55 grams) and appreciate a switch with a thocky, neutral, or low-pitched sound, along with a bouncy feel, then the Dareu Sky V4 could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of force, sound, and feel.
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