Dareu Sky V3 vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V3 and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two noteworthy options stand out: the Dareu Sky V3 and the TTC Yunhai, both renowned linear switches that cater to distinct typing preferences. The Sky V3 is celebrated for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a harmonious balance that appeals to a wide range of users, from enthusiasts to professionals seeking comfort and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the TTC Yunhai offers a unique typing experience characterized by its deep, rounded sound profile and an incredibly light actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a gentle, effortless feel while typing. While both switches deliver a satisfying performance, their differences cater to specific typing styles and preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
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
POK
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
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky V3 and the TTC Yunhai, we can observe distinct differences that significantly affect the overall typing experience. The Dareu Sky V3 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and clarity. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that can be perceived as more resonant, particularly beneficial for those who favor a more expressive typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai features a nylon top housing, a material renowned for absorbing sound due to its softer nature. As a result, the Yunhai produces a deeper, fuller sound profile, which provides a more rounded auditory experience. If users seek a bright and crisp typing sound, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 will likely deliver, while those preferring a softer, more muted sound may gravitate towards the Yunhai's nylon top.
Looking at the bottom housings of both switches, we find that the Dareu Sky V3 and the TTC Yunhai both incorporate nylon, which leads to a similarity in the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Sky V3, like that of the Yunhai, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's sound-absorbing properties. Consequently, while the top housings create distinct sound profiles—sharp and clear for the Sky V3 versus rounded and deep for the Yunhai—the nylon bottom housings serve to unify the typing experience across both switches. This effectively means that both switches can still produce a satisfying and consistent bottoming-out feel and sound, despite their differing top housing materials.
In summary, the Dareu Sky V3 and TTC Yunhai offer contrasting audio experiences through their choice of top housing materials while sharing a commonality in their nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top of the Sky V3 enhances sharpness and clarity, making it great for users seeking a more aggressive sound profile, while the nylon top of the Yunhai promotes a smoother, rounder auditory experience. However, the utilization of nylon at the bottom in both cases ensures that users will enjoy a cohesive tactile feedback and sound when bottoming out, allowing for a well-rounded typing experience regardless of personal preference. Thus, users can choose between the two based on their desired auditory characteristics, with the understanding that both switches still offer a satisfying foundation due to their shared bottom housing material.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sky V3 has an actuation force of 40 grams, which makes it slightly lighter than the Yunhai's 42 grams; this could appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. However, the Sky V3's bottom out force is not specified, while the Yunhai offers a measurable bottom out force of 50 grams. This information indicates that the Yunhai provides a more substantial feel upon bottoming out, which may be preferable for those who appreciate a heavier resistance and tactile feedback. Overall, users seeking a lighter experience might opt for the Sky V3, while those desiring a stronger push should consider the TTC Yunhai linear switch.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference means that the Sky V3 provides a deeper, more pronounced keypress experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a traditional feel and want to enjoy a heftier typing sensation. In contrast, the Yunhai’s 3.6 mm travel distance caters to those who favor snappier performance, as shorter travel distances are often preferred by gamers for quick response times. Ultimately, if you are looking for a switch that delivers a more substantial feedback and depth, the Sky V3 is the better choice, while the Yunhai is ideal for users seeking a quicker, more responsive 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 TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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
The sound profile of the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is characterized by a neutral and subdued signature, making it moderately pleasant without being overly loud. This balance allows it to fit seamlessly into both office and home environments, which is appreciated by both beginners and experienced typists. The gentle sound it produces creates a comfortable ambiance that doesn't distract those around it. On the other hand, specific characteristics of the TTC Yunhai linear switch's sound profile are unknown, but it is noted that they produce a deep, rounded sound, which suggests a more pronounced acoustic presence than the Sky V3. This deeper sound may resonate well for those who enjoy a more robust auditory feedback during their typing sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Sky V3 switch offers a mild typing experience, appealing to a broad range of users who prefer softer feedback without overwhelming sensations. This gentle touch can be ideal for long typing sessions, as it maintains comfort and reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch is celebrated for its incredibly light actuation force, providing an effortless typing experience that some might find even more accommodating than the mild feel of the Sky V3. However, the precise tactile qualities of the Yunhai switch remain unspecified, making direct comparisons in terms of tactile sensations challenging.
Overall, both the Dareu Sky V3 and TTC Yunhai linear switches cater to different typing preferences while retaining certain shared qualities. The Sky V3 is a versatile choice for users seeking a neutral sound and a mild feel, making it suitable for various environments. The Yunhai, with its deeper sound and lighter actuation, provides an alternative for those who enjoy a more effortless typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a balanced auditory experience or an exceptionally light touch in your typing. Users can expect satisfying results from either option, given their varying strengths and intended styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, consider your typing preferences and the environments in which you'll be using your keyboard. If you value a balanced and versatile typing experience, the Sky V3 is your go-to option, thanks to its neutral sound profile, medium-light weight, and mild feel. This makes it suitable for diverse uses, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned typist, and it's particularly advantageous if you're looking for a switch that performs well in both professional settings and at home. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers an effortless feel with a deeper sound profile, the Yunhai switch might be the better choice for you. Its light actuation force can make typing feel smooth and gentle, ideal for those who prioritize a more relaxed typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you seek a versatile all-rounder (Sky V3) or a lighter, quieter option with a unique auditory character (Yunhai).
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