Dareu Sky V3 vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch are two popular options to consider. The Sky V3 is renowned for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a perfect balance for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile. If you prefer a neutral and subdued typing experience, the Sky V3 may be the ideal choice, while the Duck switch with its mild, buttery, and polished feel could be more to your liking. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the Dareu Sky V3 and the SP-Star Duck, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate's translucency is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. However, the bottom housing material differs between the two keyboards, with the Sky V3 utilizing a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper sound output.
While both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing, the differences lie in their bottom housing materials. The Sky V3's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the sharpness and clarity of the overall sound. This split between the bottom and top housing materials means that the qualities of each material will impact different aspects of the sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while both the Dareu Sky V3 and the SP-Star Duck feature a polycarbonate top housing, the choice of bottom housing material significantly influences the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Sky V3's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances sharpness and clarity. Whether you prefer a rounder, more absorbent sound or a crisper, more resonant sound, each keyboard offers a unique typing experience based on its housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards may depend on individual preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Sky V3 has a light actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to type for longer durations without fatigue setting in. However, the bottom out force for the Sky V3 is unknown, which may affect the overall feel of the keystrokes. In contrast, the Duck tactile switch has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Although the actuation force for the Duck is unknown, the heavier bottom out force indicates a firmer keystroke feel compared to the Sky V3. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference, with the Sky V3 being lighter and more suitable for extended typing sessions, while the Duck offers a heavier and more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key outfitted with either of these switches, users will experience a similar level of key travel. The 4 mm travel distance provides a satisfying tactile feedback for typists and gamers alike. While both switches offer the same travel distance, they differ in their typing experience, with the Sky V3 offering a linear switch experience and the Duck providing a tactile switch experience. Overall, users can expect a consistent and comfortable typing experience with either switch option.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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, both the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate sound level that is suitable for various typing environments. The Sky V3 provides a more subdued sound compared to most switches, while the Duck switches offer a clean and crispy sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Moving on to feel, both the Sky V3 and Duck switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Duck switches are described as having a buttery and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Whether you prefer a more subtle tactile experience or a smoother keystroke, both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have their own unique qualities that make them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Sky V3 stands out for its neutral sound profile and medium-light weight, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience. However, regardless of your choice, both switches offer quality performance that will satisfy your mechanical keyboard needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a neutral sound profile and medium-light weight, the Sky V3 would be a suitable choice, offering comfort and precision for a diverse range of users. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switches would be ideal. Ultimately, choose the switch that best aligns with your preferred typing experience and sound profile to enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
Mentioned in this article
