Dareu Sky V4 vs. HMX SU

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right linear mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Dareu Sky V4 and the HMX SU. The Sky V4 switch distinguishes itself through its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper, thocky sound signature that enhances its smooth linear action and provides a rich typing experience. Ideal for users who appreciate a more satisfying auditory feedback, the Sky V4 is categorized as 'Thocky,' 'Neutral,' 'Low-pitched,' and 'Bouncy.' On the other hand, the HMX SU, featuring a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem, offers a subtly deep sound profile that typists may find appealing for a quiet yet responsive experience. While both switches cater to enthusiasts seeking linear performance, the choice ultimately hinges on personal preference regarding sound signature and overall feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

HMX SU Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

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Housing materials

The Dareu Sky V4 and the HMX SU both showcase intriguing housing materials that influence their overall performance, comfort, and auditory feedback when activated. The Sky V4 features a top housing made from polyketone (POK), known for its exceptional durability and smoothness, with a coefficient of friction of 0.04. In contrast, the HMX SU employs a more traditional nylon material for its top housing. While the nylon provides a distinctive sound profile that is deeper and fuller due to its softer nature, it may not deliver the same resilience and smooth operation that POK offers. Therefore, the tactile and acoustic sensations experienced when typing on the Sky V4 may contrast with the softer, rounded auditory feedback of the HMX SU.

Both switches, however, incorporate nylon for their bottom housings, which serves to unify the auditory experience across both models. The nylon material, known for its ability to absorb sound effectively, produces a more substantial bottom-out sound and feel regardless of the top housing material. This means that when users engage either switch, the low-end acoustic quality remains consistent due to the commonality of nylon in the bottom housing. The result is that while the top housing may differentiate the switches in terms of tactile feedback and smoothness, the warmth and roundness of sound are present in both, creating an interesting blend of experiences depending on how the user interacts with each model.

In summary, the primary distinction lies in the top housing materials: the Sky V4's POK boasts superior durability and a smoother feel, while the HMX SU's nylon offers a traditional sound experience. The shared use of nylon in both bottom housings ensures that players will encounter a similar deep and fuller sound profile when striking the keys, alleviating some of the acoustic disparities introduced by the differing top materials. Ultimately, while the Sky V4 may excel in certain performance aspects due to its advanced housing material technology, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience desirable to different preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that they require the same amount of effort to trigger a keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ, with the Sky V4 having a bottom out force of 55 grams compared to the HMX SU's 50 grams. This means that while both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation, the Sky V4 offers a slightly heavier feel when bottoming out. Therefore, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Dareu Sky V4 would be the better choice, while the HMX SU, being lighter with a lower bottom out force, would be ideal for those who value a softer touch, especially for extended typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the Sky V4 is the heavier option while the HMX SU is the lighter one.

Travel distance

The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch have identical travel distances, both measuring 3.6 mm from the top to the bottom. This means that users pressing down on either switch will experience the same key travel, resulting in similar tactile feedback and actuation feel. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they can provide a consistent typing experience, allowing users to achieve the same results in terms of keystroke depth and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch delivers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by a deep, thocky profile. This switch produces a low-pitched, rich sound that resonates with each keystroke, akin to a satisfying "thud" or gentle "knock" upon actuation. The combination of its POK material housing contributes to this unique sound signature, making it particularly enjoyable for typists who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, while the HMX SU linear switch does feature a full PA12 housing, specific attributes detailing its sound profile remain unmentioned. However, it is noted that the SU has a subtle and relatively deep sound, hinting at a potentially mild, yet pleasant auditory experience that might appeal to typists seeking something understated.

In terms of feel, the Sky V4 switch stands out for its bouncy characteristic, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. The elastic feedback sensation allows typists to feel an engaging rebound during each keystroke, enhancing the overall tactile experience while typing. Unfortunately, the feel of the HMX SU linear switch is not specified, making it challenging to draw definitive comparisons. It’s possible that its tactile feedback will differ, but without specific descriptors, the user can only gauge its performance through personal testing.

In conclusion, both the Dareu Sky V4 and the HMX SU linear switches offer intriguing qualities, especially regarding sound. The Sky V4 is celebrated for its thocky and rich auditory feedback alongside its bouncy feel, while the SU presents some possibilities in terms of sound without a defined tactile response. Ultimately, if you aim for a satisfying auditory and tactile experience, the Sky V4 may cater to you more thoroughly, but trying both switches could yield similar results in terms of deep sound quality, enhancing your journey into the world of mechanical keyboards.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch primarily hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you appreciate a medium-light actuation force and enjoy a typing experience that combines smoothness with a satisfying thocky sound, the Sky V4 is an excellent choice for both typing and gaming. Its POK material in the top housing contributes to a unique, deeper sound profile, making it highly suitable for environments where sound consideration is important, like shared workspaces or during long typing sessions at home. The bouncy feel also adds a lively touch to every keystroke, enhancing your overall experience. Conversely, if you prefer a lighter actuation force with a more neutral feel and a subtle sound profile, the HMX SU linear switch might be better aligned with your needs. Its lighter bottom out force at 50 grams makes it an ideal option for rapid typing or gaming, where quick, effortless keystrokes are desired. Ultimately, your choice should reflect not only the tactile and auditory feedback you seek but also the type of activities you plan to use the switches for, ensuring a satisfying experience that caters to your unique preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more

HMX SU Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more