Dareu Sky V3 vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and Gazzew U4 tactile switch stand out as popular options. The Sky V3 is widely praised for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a comfortable and precise typing experience suitable for both enthusiasts and professionals. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch boasts a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, creating a whisper-quiet sound profile. While the Sky V3 is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Mild' and the U4 as 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', 'Sharp', both switches have their unique appeal and strengths. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Dareu Sky V3 and the Gazzew U4, both keyboards feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Sky V3 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This material is especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency and clarity. On the other hand, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," offers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While these materials differ in stiffness, they both enhance the overall typing experience in their own ways.
The housing materials of the bottom components also play a significant role in defining the sound profile of the keyboards. The Sky V3 incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, delivering a rich and deep sound profile comparable to the top housing material. Both keyboards strive to provide users with a satisfying typing experience by incorporating unique material blends in their construction.
Overall, the Dareu Sky V3 and the Gazzew U4 showcase a balance of different housing materials to achieve their distinctive sound profiles. While the Sky V3 emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the U4 focuses on a rich and deep sound through its proprietary Gazzew blend. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, each component contributes to the overall typing experience, demonstrating the importance of material selection in keyboard design. Ultimately, consumers can choose between these keyboards based on their preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but the U4 has a slightly heavier actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Sky V3 may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may prefer the U4. The actuation force determines how much pressure is needed to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the force needed to press the key all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that the Sky V3 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the U4's 3.6 mm. The Sky V3 offers a more traditional travel distance, while the U4 provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the U4 for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Sky V3. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of the amount of key travel desired for a comfortable typing or gaming experience.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of typing environments without being overly disruptive. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound, offering a quieter typing experience that minimizes noise, especially in quiet settings. Both switches offer a unique sound signature that caters to different preferences, with the Sky V3 providing a more neutral and versatile option, while the U4 delivers a quieter and more subdued typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that caters to a wider range of users. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump, offering a high feedback intensity that provides a distinct and crisp typing experience with each keypress. While the Sky V3 offers a more subtle and easy-going typing feel, the U4 provides a more pronounced tactile feedback for those who prefer a more tactile typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Sky V3 provides a neutral and subdued sound with a mild typing experience, the U4 offers a muted and low-pitched sound with a sharp and intense tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a balance of both, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience that meets your individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on your personal preferences and needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a neutral sound profile and medium-light weight, the Sky V3 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush bottom-out sensation and whisper-quiet sound profile, the U4 could be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize comfort and precision or a distinctive tactile experience. Choose wisely based on what best fits your typing style and preferences.
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