Dareu Sky V3 vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX Swift are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique advantages for different typing preferences. The Dareu Sky V3 switches are celebrated for their neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience that caters to both enthusiasts and professionals. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switches stand out for their deeper sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to their full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. While the Dareu Sky V3 is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Mild', the HMX Swift is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', 'Bouncy', and 'Creamy'. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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 extended spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky V3 and HMX Swift both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Sky V3 featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Swift utilizing a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, while nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This means that users can expect a different auditory experience when typing on these switches, with the Sky V3 providing a more clear and resonant sound and the Swift offering a duller and rounder sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Sky V3 allows for RGB lighting effects, which may appeal to users looking for customizable lighting options.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dareu Sky V3 and HMX Swift utilize nylon. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to stiffer plastics. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when bottoming out these switches, with both switches offering a deeper and fuller sound during typing. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches suggests a focus on achieving a certain sound profile and typing experience that is consistent across different switch models.
Overall, while the Dareu Sky V3 and HMX Swift feature different top housing materials (polycarbonate vs. nylon), they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that users can expect a similar sound profile and typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the top housing material will have a significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, with the Sky V3 providing a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the duller and rounder sound of the Swift. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that the Sky V3 requires a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Swift's 42 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Swift has a lighter force of 50 grams while the bottom out force of the Sky V3 is unknown. This means that the Swift provides a lighter typing experience overall, making it potentially more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Sky V3 may appeal to users who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, we can see that the Sky V3 has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Swift has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Sky V3 being slightly longer than the Swift. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Swift, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the slightly longer travel distance of the Sky V3. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard and keycaps, users can achieve different sound results with these switches.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel for most users. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy, delivering a light and responsive typing sensation with a silky smoothness. Both switches aim to reduce finger fatigue and enhance the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feel.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities, users can expect a comfortable and precise typing experience with both switches. Whether you prefer a neutral and subdued sound with a mild feel, or a clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, both options cater to diverse typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a neutral sound signature and medium-light weight for a balanced typing experience catering to a wide range of preferences, the Dareu Sky V3 switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound profile with a silky smoothness and a light 42g actuation force for effortless typing, the HMX Swift switch might be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose wisely based on what aligns best with your personal preferences and needs in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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