Dareu Sky V3 vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky V3 and the Gazzew U4T offer unique advantages catering to different preferences. The Dareu Sky V3 is a linear switch best known for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts and professionals seeking a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch celebrated for its harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a satisfying auditory and tactile feedback with every keystroke. While the Sky V3 is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Mild', the U4T is characterized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', 'Sharp'. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Sky V3 and the Gazzew U4T offer unique characteristics that can affect the sound and feel of the switches. The Sky V3 features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent and ideal for RGB lighting, while the Gazzew blend top housing offers a unique boba plastic blend for a softer feel.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Sky V3 utilizes a nylon material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. Similarly, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also offers a rich and deep sound profile because of its softness. Both bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced more by the bottom housing and the sound upon key release being impacted more by the top housing.
While the housing materials of the Dareu Sky V3 and the Gazzew U4T offer different characteristics in terms of sound profile and feel, they both aim to enhance the overall typing experience. The polycarbonate and nylon materials of the Sky V3 create a sharper and deeper sound profile, while the proprietary Gazzew blend materials of the U4T offer a rich and unique sound experience. Ultimately, both switches strive to provide a satisfying typing experience for users, with the choice between the two depending on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the U4T requires a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the bottom out force for the Sky V3 is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky V3 may be the better option as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the U4T due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, it is clear that both offer the same tactile feedback and typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. This means that whether you choose the Sky V3 or the U4T, you can expect a consistent typing experience with a travel distance of 4 mm. Ultimately, both switches provide a similar level of key travel, offering users a satisfying typing experience regardless of which one they choose.
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 U4T 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
When it comes to sound profile, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a neutral and subdued typing experience, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a bassy and thocky sound profile, resulting in a more rich and satisfying auditory feedback with each keypress. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, users can expect distinct sound characteristics that align with their typing style.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Sky V3 is known for its mild and gentle typing experience, providing a comfortable and approachable feel during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a sharp and intense tactile feedback with a prominent and crisp tactile bump, making each keystroke feel distinct and tactilely satisfying. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their typing style.
In conclusion, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Sky V3 provides a neutral and mild typing experience, the U4T delivers a bassy and thocky sound profile with a sharp tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing experience. It's important to consider personal typing preferences, as well as the overall setup of the keyboard and keycaps, to achieve the desired typing feel and sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and medium-light weight that caters to diverse typing preferences, then the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value comfort and precision or prefer a more satisfying auditory and tactile experience in your typing. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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