Dareu Sky V3 vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Dareu Sky V3, a linear switch, and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch. The Sky V3 is lauded for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it a versatile choice that caters to a variety of typing preferences. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature, providing a balanced typing experience favored by many. While the Sky V3 is praised for its comfort and precision, the Violet Gold Pro is often seen as the "Goldilocks" tactile option for those seeking a tactile switch that is not too heavy or too light. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky V3 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the differences between the two keyboards lie in their bottom housing material. The Sky V3 features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the similar top housing materials of polycarbonate in both the Dareu Sky V3 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, the choice of nylon for the Sky V3's bottom housing sets it apart from its counterpart. While the polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharp and crisp sound profile in both keyboards, the Sky V3's nylon bottom housing enhances the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro maintains consistency with polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a uniform sound profile across the board.
In terms of functionality, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a switch. The Dareu Sky V3's nylon bottom housing provides a unique typing experience with a deep and round sound, while the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a consistent and sharp sound profile. It's important to consider the impact of both the top and bottom housing materials when choosing a keyboard, as they can significantly affect the overall typing experience and sound quality. Ultimately, whether you prefer the deeper sound of nylon or the sharper sound of polycarbonate, both the Dareu Sky V3 and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offer unique qualities to suit different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch to the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, the actuation force of the Sky V3 at 40 grams is lighter than the Violet Gold Pro at 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is difficult to determine which switch requires more force to bottom out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sky V3, as the lower actuation force allows for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro provides a slightly heavier actuation force, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and experience desired during typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Sky V3 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Violet Gold Pro. The difference may seem small, but it can affect the overall feel and performance of the switch. For those who prefer a more traditional and deeper keystroke experience, the Sky V3 may be the better option. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a quicker and more responsive typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, but both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs.
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 Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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, both the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound signature, making them suitable for a variety of typing environments and preferences. While the Sky V3 is noted for its slightly subdued sound when pressed, the Violet Gold Pro offers a similar neutral sound profile, providing a more subtle typing experience. It is important to note that the actual sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Sky V3 linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience, making it a gentle option for users who prefer a less pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro tactile switch is characterized as stepped, providing a more distinct tactile bump sensation with pre-travel and/or post-travel stages. This tactile quality can offer a different typing experience compared to the smoother feel of the Sky V3.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. While the Sky V3 provides a neutral and slightly subdued sound with a mild typing feel, the Violet Gold Pro delivers a similar neutral sound but with a more stepped tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the individual's preferred sound and feel preferences for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a smooth typing experience with a neutral sound profile and don't mind a light actuation force, the Sky V3 linear switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a balanced tactile feedback with a gentle touch and neutral sound, the Violet Gold Pro tactile switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so carefully consider your specific needs before making a decision.
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