Dareu Sky V3 vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX Xinhai both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Dareu Sky V3, a linear switch, is renowned for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it a popular choice among typing enthusiasts and professionals alike. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai, also a linear switch, stands out for its unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, providing a softer acoustics profile and distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance. While the Sky V3 is praised for its comfort and precision, the Xinhai is admired for its subtle sophistication and precise performance. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX Xinhai utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches with RGB lighting as it allows the light to shine through. This similarity in housing material suggests that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel from both keyboards.
In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 features a nylon bottom housing, while the HMX Xinhai also uses nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these keyboards influences the bottom-out sound and feel, adding a duller and rounder quality to the overall typing experience. This shared characteristic between the two keyboards highlights the importance of the bottom housing material in shaping the sound and feel of the keys.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in both the Dareu Sky V3 and the HMX Xinhai plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of the keyboards. While the top housings are polycarbonate in both models, providing a sharp and clear sound, the bottom housings made of nylon contribute to a deeper and fuller sound during typing. The contrast between the top and bottom housings showcases how different materials can influence various aspects of the overall typing experience, demonstrating the importance of housing material selection in keyboard design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that the Xinhai is the lighter option. The Sky V3 has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it slightly lighter. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Xinhai has a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky V3 is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Xinhai would be the better choice, as it requires less force to actuate the keys. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Sky V3 with its higher actuation force would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that the Sky V3 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm while the Xinhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Sky V3's 4 mm distance is more traditional, providing a deeper keypress feel, while the Xinhai's 3.4 mm distance is shallower, offering a quicker response time. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for speed, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the longer option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences regarding travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $3.19.
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 provides a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch offers a clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, users can choose between a more subtle and neutral sound with the Sky V3 or a livelier and brighter sound with the Xinhai.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a mild typing experience, characterized by a gentle and approachable feel. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai linear switch provides a bouncy and creamy sensation, with keys that offer a spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery typing experience. Whether users prefer a more mild and safe typing feel with the Sky V3 or a bouncier and creamy experience with the Xinhai, both switches offer unique tactile experiences for users to enjoy.
Overall, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Sky V3 provides a neutral and subdued sound with a mild typing experience, the Xinhai offers a clacky sound with a bouncy and creamy feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound profile and typing feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches deliver quality performance and precision to cater to a range of typing preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you are looking for a switch with a medium-light weight and a neutral sound signature that offers comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a softer acoustics profile, and a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the HMX Xinhai switch might be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches should depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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