Dareu Sky V3 vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Sky V3 and Dareu Sky V4 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for different typing preferences. The Sky V3 is praised for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it a versatile option suitable for a wide range of typing styles. On the other hand, the Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action. While the Sky V3 is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Mild', the Sky V4 is described as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, catering to enthusiasts and professionals alike. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky V3 and the Dareu Sky V4, it is clear that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the POK material used in the Sky V4's top housing provides a smooth, clacky, and durable feel with impressive wear and shock resistance properties. While both materials offer unique qualities, the Sky V4's POK material stands out for its exceptional durability and smooth feel.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Sky V3 and Sky V4 opt for nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The decision to use nylon for the bottom housing in both keyboards highlights the desired acoustic qualities that this classic switch housing material can provide, offering a more muted and resonant typing experience.
Overall, while the Dareu Sky V3 and Sky V4 share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, they differentiate themselves with the top housing materials. The Sky V3's polycarbonate top housing prioritizes a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for RGB lighting setups, while the Sky V4's POK material offers a smooth, clacky, and durable typing experience. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches allows for a balanced blend of qualities, impacting both the bottom-out sound and feel as well as the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force for the Sky V3 is unknown, while the Sky V4 requires 55 grams of force to bottom out. The lighter actuation force of the Sky V3 may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Sky V4 may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Sky V3 and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches, it is clear that the Sky V3 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Sky V4's 3.6 mm. The Sky V4's shorter travel distance may make it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times, while the Sky V3's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches offer their own unique feel and experience, with the Sky V4 being slightly shorter and the Sky V3 being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and what type of typing or gaming experience is desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
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
Overall, the Dareu Sky V3 and Sky V4 linear switches offer unique experiences in both sound and feel. The Sky V3 is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users in various environments. In contrast, the Sky V4 provides a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound that delivers a deeper and more satisfying typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Sky V3 offers a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle ground, while the Sky V4 provides a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback for a lively typing feel. Whether you choose the Sky V3 or Sky V4, both switches are designed to cater to different preferences and ensure a comfortable and precise typing experience, with the choice ultimately depending on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Sky V3 if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a neutral sound signature and a subdued sound profile. The Sky V3 offers a comfortable and precise typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, choose the Sky V4 if you appreciate a deeper sound signature with a thocky profile and a low-pitched tone. The Sky V4's innovative use of POK material in its top housing enhances the smooth linear action for a rich and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and bottom out force to ensure that you select the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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