Dareu Sky V4 vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V4 and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Sky V4 and the TTC Speed Silver, both of which are linear switches. The Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in its top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action that provides a rich and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Speed Silver is known for its fast and precise typing experience, with light-medium resistance and a pristine sound profile. While the Sky V4 is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', the Speed Silver falls under 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished' categories. Deciding between these two switches depends on whether you prefer a deeper sound and bounce with the Sky V4 or a fast and precise typing experience with the Speed Silver. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky V4 and TTC Speed Silver both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall performance and sound profile of the switches. While the Sky V4 features a POK top housing known for its smoothness and durability, the Speed Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both materials offer distinct advantages, with POK providing a clacky feel and exceptional strength, while polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Despite these differences, both materials excel in enhancing the overall typing experience with their unique characteristics.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Sky V4 and Speed Silver utilize nylon for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. This similarity in bottom housing materials between the two switches ensures that users can enjoy a consistent sound profile regardless of which switch they choose. The use of nylon in the bottom housing also contributes to a more satisfying typing experience by enhancing the tactile feedback and overall sound quality of the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Dareu Sky V4 and TTC Speed Silver differ in material, they both play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of the switches. The qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide users with a premium typing experience by combining the unique characteristics of their housing materials to create a satisfying sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is evident that they are identical in terms of force requirements. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making them medium-light switches. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the force needed to register a key press and the amount of force required to fully press the key down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, both the Sky V4 and Speed Silver switches would be suitable options. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a heavier typing feel for a more tactile experience may find these switches to be too light for their preference. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. In this case, the Dareu Sky V4 has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the TTC Speed Silver. The 0.2mm may not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the feel of the switch when typing or gaming. For those who prefer a more responsive feel, the TTC Speed Silver may be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 may be more suitable for individuals who enjoy a deeper, more deliberate keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences and the choice between the two will depend on personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V4 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 V4 for $4.76.
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 V4 linear switch is best described as providing a thocky sound profile, delivering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound with each keypress. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Both switches excel in providing a pleasant typing experience, with the Sky V4 offering a low-pitched tone compared to the Speed Silver's more neutral sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard system.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that adds to the overall typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, characterized by a gentle feel and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing experience, with the Sky V4 leaning towards a livelier feel while the Speed Silver provides a more refined and polished touch. Whether you prefer a bouncy feedback or a polished smoothness will influence your decision between the two switches.
Overall, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch each bring their own unique characteristics to the table, offering users a choice between a deep thocky sound with a bouncy feel or a neutral sound with a polished typing experience. While the Sky V4 caters to those who appreciate a deeper sound signature and a bouncy sensation, the Speed Silver appeals to those seeking a more neutral sound and a smooth key travel. Ultimately, both switches are high-quality options that will provide a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you value a deep and satisfying thocky sound with a bouncy feel, the Sky V4 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a fast and precise typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, the Speed Silver might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, so your decision should come down to personal preferences in sound and feel. Happy typing!
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