Dareu Sky V3 vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky V3 and the Gateron Smoothie both offer unique features that cater to different typing preferences. The Sky V3 is praised for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts and professionals seeking a balance between comfort and precision. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its all-POM construction, providing a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch at a more affordable price point. While the Sky V3 is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Mild', the Smoothie is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', and 'Silky'. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky V3 and Gateron Smoothie both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Sky V3 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a clear and resonant profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a different auditory experience. While both provide distinct sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound quality and aesthetics.
In terms of bottom housings, the Sky V3 features a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Conversely, the Smoothie's POM bottom housing provides a similar deep sound profile but with a more muted quality. Despite this difference, both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound experience of the switch. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound from nylon or a more muted and deep sound from POM, both options offer their own unique qualities for users to consider.
When considering the overall impact of the housing materials on the switches, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in determining the sound and feel of the switch. The choice between polycarbonate and POM for the top housing can influence the sound when pressing and releasing a key, while the nylon and POM choices for the bottom housing will affect the bottom-out sound and feel. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials in the Dareu Sky V3 and Gateron Smoothie provides users with a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch share the same actuation force of 40 grams, making them equally responsive in triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the information is unavailable for both switches. In terms of weight, the actuation force being the same suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sensitivity and responsiveness. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience, either switch would be suitable for extended use, whether for work or gaming. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a heavier feel while typing for a more substantial experience, both switches would provide a satisfying pushback sensation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to other factors such as design, price, or availability.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Sky V3's travel distance is longer than the Smoothie's, providing a slightly deeper press when typing or gaming. Gamers may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Sky V3 to be beneficial for a more deliberate key press. On the other hand, the Smoothie's shorter travel distance may offer a quicker response time, which can be advantageous for fast-paced gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press responsiveness.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, providing a comfortable typing experience suitable for various environments. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound signature, delivering a deep and satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer a subdued sound profile, but the Sky V3 leans towards a more neutral sound, while the Smoothie provides a richer and more bass-heavy tone.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel for most users. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky smooth keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation that enhances overall typing comfort. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, but the Smoothie offers a more luxurious and silky feel compared to the mild and gentle feel of the Sky V3.
Overall, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles to cater to different preferences. While the Sky V3 provides a neutral and mild typing experience with a subdued sound, the Smoothie showcases a thocky sound signature and a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth keystroke. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the comfortable and balanced feel of the Sky V3 or the luxurious and smooth sensation of the Smoothie, ensuring a satisfying typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a neutral sound profile and medium-light weight for a balanced typing experience that caters to various preferences, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie switch would be a great fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so choose based on what appeals to your individual preferences and needs. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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