TTC Silent Brown vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the TTC Silent Brown and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Silent Brown and the Dareu Sky V4. The Silent Brown is a tactile switch known for its comfortable typing experience, light-medium resistance, and satisfying rounded tactile bump. Its muted sound profile makes it a great choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action. Typists can enjoy a rich and satisfying typing experience with this switch. Each switch offers its own unique qualities and benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Silent Brown and the Dareu Sky V4, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Silent Brown results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, particularly advantageous for RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. On the other hand, the POK material in the Sky V4's top housing contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches, with exceptional strength and wear resistance. While both materials offer distinct advantages, the Silent Brown's polycarbonate may be preferred for those seeking a crisper sound profile, while the POK material in the Sky V4 offers superior durability and smoothness.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Silent Brown and Sky V4 utilize nylon as their material of choice. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, creating a unique typing experience for users of both switches. While the choice of nylon for the bottom housing is similar between the two switches, the overall typing experience may vary based on the specific design and construction of each switch.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Silent Brown and the Dareu Sky V4 showcase a combination of polycarbonate and nylon, with each material offering its unique advantages in sound profile and durability. While the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting, the Sky V4's POK top housing excels in smoothness, clackiness, and robustness. Similarly, both switches' use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a distinct typing experience for users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall durability.
Weight
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key press. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silent Brown requires 63.5 grams, making it heavier compared to the Sky V4 which only needs 55 grams. This means that the Silent Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Sky V4 offers a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Silent Brown being the heavier option and the Sky V4 being the lighter one.
Travel distance
The TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making the Silent Brown slightly longer in travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among users looking for quicker response times, especially in gaming. The Silent Brown may provide a slightly more substantial feel due to its longer travel distance, which could be preferred by those who like a bit more depth in their keystrokes. However, both switches offer relatively similar travel distances, so users can expect comparable results in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
In terms of sound, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted experience, producing a softer and quieter sound that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience. Depending on personal preferences, individuals may find the Silent Brown's muted sound profile more appealing, while others may prefer the Sky V4's unique thocky and low-pitched characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Silent Brown switch provides a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Whether one prefers the smooth and refined feel of the Silent Brown or the bouncy and lively sensation of the Sky V4 ultimately depends on individual typing preferences.
Overall, both the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Users can expect a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump from the Silent Brown, while the Sky V4 distinguishes itself through the innovative use of POK material for a smooth linear action and rich sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a muted sound, the Silent Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear action with a deeper sound signature and a bouncy feel, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure a satisfying keyboarding experience.
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