Dareu Sky V3 vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX Vintage Citrus offers diverse benefits suited for different users. The Sky V3 is widely celebrated for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it a versatile option for both typing enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its balanced characteristics deliver a combination of comfort and precision, allowing for an enjoyable user experience across various tasks. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is specifically tailored for gamers, featuring an incredibly low actuation force of just 1mm, ideal for those looking for rapid-fire responsiveness. Its bright, clacky sound profile and smooth actuation provide an engaging and dynamic experience that can enhance performance during intense gameplay. While both switches offer unique advantages—comfort and versatility in the Sky V3 versus speed and responsiveness in the Vintage Citrus—let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
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-staged spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX Vintage Citrus showcase distinct housing materials that affect their auditory characteristics and tactile feel. The Sky V3 employs a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This quality allows the switch to make full use of RGB lighting due to its translucency, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus opts for a nylon top housing, which is softer and provides a rounder and fuller sound profile. This difference in material selection leads to contrasting acoustic experiences when using each switch. The polycarbonate of the Sky V3 contributes to a clearer sound, while the nylon of the Vintage Citrus absorbs more sound, resulting in a richer tonal quality.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Sky V3 and the Vintage Citrus utilize nylon materials, leading to similar auditory characteristics in this regard. With nylon being a classic switch housing material, both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound during typing. This consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing means that, regardless of the differences in the top housing materials, users will experience a duller and rounder sound profile once the key bottoms out. Both switches capitalize on nylon's sound-absorbing qualities which help to create a smoother acoustic experience when pressing the keys.
Ultimately, the combination of the different top and bottom housing materials in the Sky V3 and Vintage Citrus allows for a nuanced typing experience characterized by their distinct sound profiles. Users of the Sky V3 will notice a clear differentiation between the sound produced while pressing down the key versus releasing it, thanks to the harder polycarbonate top and softer nylon bottom. Meanwhile, Vintage Citrus users will benefit from a consistent rounded sound due to its nylon construction on both top and bottom. Despite having the same bottom housing material, the auditory experience of each switch is shaped significantly by the choice of top housing, highlighting the importance of material selection in keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, we see notable differences in their actuation forces. The Sky V3 features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which is advantageous for users looking to type or game for extended periods without fatigue. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus has a heavier actuation force of 48 grams, paired with a bottom out force of 53 grams, offering a more substantial typing feel that some users may prefer for tactile feedback. While the Sky V3 does not have a specified bottom out force, if it were available and comparable to that of the Vintage Citrus, it would likely offer a softer landing when pressed down fully. Overall, the Sky V3 can be considered a better choice for those who favor lighter switches for comfort, while the Vintage Citrus caters to those who enjoy a stronger push sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, the Sky V3 features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Vintage Citrus has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This means that the Sky V3 offers a more traditional, deeper feel, which can be appealing for those who enjoy a more substantial keypress. Conversely, the Vintage Citrus, with its shallower 3 mm travel distance, provides a quicker response time that many gamers prefer for rapid actions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference: opt for the Sky V3 for a more pronounced feedback and depth, or go with the Vintage Citrus for a snappier and more immediate keystroke.
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 Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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 produces a neutral and subdued auditory experience. This means it strikes a balance that appeals to a wide range of users, from beginners to experienced typists, making it a versatile choice for various environments, be it home or office. The sound signature is not overly pronounced, allowing for a pleasant typing experience that doesn't distract from the task at hand. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus switch is designed to offer a bright, clacky profile, catering primarily to gamers who appreciate auditory feedback during rapid inputs. It is likely that this switch produces a more noticeable sound when pressed, appealing to users who enjoy a pronounced auditory response with their keystrokes.
In terms of feel, the Sky V3 is characterized by a mild typing experience, which lends itself to a gentle approach when engaging with the keyboard. This quality ensures that most users find it accessible and comfortable, creating an all-around pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus switch is designed for speed, boasting an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm. This feature caters specifically to gamers who require quick and responsive keystrokes, resulting in a distinctly different tactile experience compared to the more subdued feel of the Sky V3.
In summary, both the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different user preferences. The Sky V3 provides a neutral sound and mild feel, making it suitable for general use, while the Vintage Citrus switch excites gamers with its bright sound and rapid actuation capabilities. Therefore, choosing between these switches will ultimately come down to whether you prioritize a balanced versatility in sound and feel or a more intensified and responsive gaming experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, you should consider your specific preferences and how you intend to use your mechanical keyboard. If you value a balanced typing experience that is comfortable for both work and casual use, the Sky V3 is an excellent choice. Its neutral sound profile and mild feel cater well to a variety of users, making it a versatile option for those who might be typing for long periods or participating in both gaming and office tasks. Conversely, if you're primarily a gamer who seeks rapid-fire responsiveness and a lively sound profile, the Vintage Citrus is tailored for that purpose. With its low actuation force and quick response, this switch excels in fast-paced gaming scenarios, allowing for swift key presses without much effort. Additionally, its bright, clacky sound may enhance your gaming experience, adding an extra layer of feedback that many gamers appreciate. Ultimately, the choice should align with your primary activities on the keyboard—opting for the Sky V3 for an all-around experience or the Vintage Citrus if your main focus is on gaming performance.
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