Dareu Sky V3 vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switches for your typing experience, the Dareu Sky V3 and HMX SU are two strong contenders in the linear switch category, each boasting unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Sky V3 is widely praised for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it an ideal choice for users who seek a harmonious balance between comfort and precision in their typing. Its subdued and mild characteristics contribute to a versatile experience, appealing to both enthusiasts and professionals alike. In contrast, the HMX SU showcases a full PA12 housing and is paired with a T5 stem, resulting in a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that some users may find appealing for a more pronounced auditory feedback. While the Sky V3 offers a more understated experience, the HMX SU provides a distinct acoustic personality, adding nuance to the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX SU, one can observe significant differences in their top housing compositions, which drastically influence their sound profiles. The Sky V3 uses a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, resulting in a more elevated and crisp sound when typing. This material's translucency also allows for effective RGB lighting, enhancing its aesthetic appeal for users seeking an illuminated keyboard experience. Conversely, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon’s softer plastic properties. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound vibrations, leading to a notably more muted and rounded auditory experience compared to the brighter tones of polycarbonate.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Sky V3 and the SU utilize nylon, resulting in a similar sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller auditory response. Since nylon is generally recognized as a classic switch housing material, its use in both models ensures that the bottoming-out sound and feel share a consistent quality between the two. This commonality means that users will experience comparable tactile feedback when pressing down on either switch, as both will exhibit the muffled characteristics derived from nylon’s sound-absorbing properties. This shared bottom housing indicates that, despite the differences in their top housings, tactile performance remains a strong point of similarity through their nylon components.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in the two models shows how housing materials can create distinct sound profiles while also portending similarities when analyzing overall typing experience. The Sky V3’s polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing work together to deliver a sharper sound in contrast to the SU’s fully nylon composition, which emphasizes deeper resonance. Thus, while the switches may produce different auditory experiences overall due to their distinct top housings, the consistency of nylon in the bottom housing serves to align their tactile responses, allowing for a somewhat unified typing feel despite their sonic differences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, notable differences arise. The Sky V3 features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, whereas the HMX SU has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Sky V3 is better suited for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing periods or long gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Sky V3 is unavailable, which leaves a gap in its performance metrics as we cannot measure how it feels when bottoming out. In contrast, the HMX SU has a definitive bottom out force of 50 grams, contributing to a more substantial feel when the switch is fully pressed down. Therefore, while the Sky V3 may offer a lighter typing experience with unknown bottom out characteristics, the HMX SU provides a heavier actuation feel with a clear bottom out sensation, appealing more to users who enjoy a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, it is clear that the Sky V3 offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the SU has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference reflects a traditional preference versus a modern inclination; the 4 mm travel of the Sky V3 provides a more substantial feel for those who enjoy a deeper key press, creating a more tactile experience. In contrast, the 3.6 mm travel of the HMX SU may appeal to gamers seeking quicker actuation and a more responsive typing experience. Thus, if one values a more immediate response, the HMX SU's shorter travel distance may be preferable, whereas those who appreciate a heartier depth might lean towards the Dareu Sky V3.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 boasts a neutral sound signature that delivers a moderate actuation force alongside a subdued profile. This makes it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in an office setting, as it produces a balanced auditory experience that caters well to both beginner and advanced users. Its more dampened sound ensures that it won't disrupt your surroundings, making it a versatile choice for anyone wanting to minimize noise while typing. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch features a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem that contributes to a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile. While detailed comparisons can't be made since the specific sound qualities of the SU are not listed, its construction hints it may lean towards a satisfying acoustic experience similar to or different from the Sky V3.
Regarding the feel of each switch, the Dareu Sky V3 is known for its mild tactile feedback, offering a gentle typing experience that is friendly to most users. Its balanced characteristics make every keystroke comfortable, allowing for extended typing sessions without strain. Unfortunately, no explicit information is available about the tactile feedback or typing experience for the HMX SU linear switch. Therefore, it's difficult to ascertain how closely it matches or contrasts with the Sky V3 in terms of feel, making it an unknown aspect for potential users.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX SU linear switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that can appeal to different typing preferences. While the Sky V3 is well-regarded for its neutral sound and mild feel, the specific sound and feel characteristics of the SU switch remain undefined at this time. For newcomers, it may be beneficial to try both switches firsthand, as the Sky V3 provides a great baseline for comfort and sound, potentially allowing for similar results with the SU, depending on its undisclosed qualities.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you value a switch that offers a neutral sound signature and a comfortable typing experience, the Sky V3 is an excellent option. Its mild feedback and subdued sound profile make it versatile enough to cater to both casual use and professional settings, allowing you to type with ease and precision without drawing too much attention. This switch is best suited for those who appreciate a balanced feel and sound, whether you’re working from home or in an office environment. On the other hand, if you prefer a more defined tactile feedback with a slightly deeper sound profile, the HMX SU linear switch might be more to your liking. Its light actuation force of 50 grams allows for effortless typing, which might appeal to gamers or users focused on fast-paced input. In summary, consider the Sky V3 for an all-around comfortable and subdued typing experience, while the HMX SU offers a unique sound and feel that can enhance your typing or gaming sessions when you desire something a bit different.
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