Dareu Sky V4 vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V4 and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the Dareu Sky V4 and the HMX Sunset Gleam highlights the nuances of linear switches, each offering its own unique typing experience. The Sky V4 is celebrated for its innovative use of POK material in its top housing, which not only contributes to a deeper sound signature but also enhances its smooth linear action, making it a favorite among typists seeking a rich and satisfying typing experience. With its characteristics classified as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', the Sky V4 appeals to those looking for both auditory and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, affectionately known as the Duck Duck switch, combines a thoughtfully curated selection of materials that yield a subtle top-out and a satisfying clack, complemented by HMX's renowned factory lube. While the Sunset Gleam may attract users who appreciate this harmonious balance of smoothness and sound, both switches provide distinct advantages depending on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POK
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky V4 and the HMX Sunset Gleam, notable differences can be observed in their top housings. The Sky V4 features a POK top housing, which is a highly durable material that boasts a low coefficient of friction at 0.04. This makes it one of the smoothest options available, leading to a typing experience characterized by smoothness, clackiness, and longevity. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam uses a polycarbonate top housing that offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer characteristics. This rigidity allows for clearer sound resonance, making polycarbonate an ideal choice for those who prioritize sound clarity, particularly beneficial when utilizing RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances visual aesthetics.
On the other hand, both the Dareu Sky V4 and HMX Sunset Gleam utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality means that the typing experience provided by the switches will share a significant characteristic: a deeper and fuller sound profile. Given that nylon is a softer plastic, both switches absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a dampened, rounder bottom-out sound. Despite the differences in the top housing materials, the bottom housing contributes heavily to the overall auditory experience when typing, ensuring that users will encounter a similar level of sound absorption and richness in both models.
Ultimately, the unique combination of housing materials in the Sky V4 and Sunset Gleam illustrates how the interplay between the top and bottom components shapes the overall switch performance. The POK top housing of the Sky V4 allows for a smooth and clacky typing feedback, while the polycarbonate top in the Sunset Gleam underscores resolution in sound—a true testament to the variations found within mechanical keyboard switches. However, with nylon present in both bottom housings, the shared comfort and deep tonal qualities will provide users with a familiar feel regardless of the choice they make; this indicates that, while the overall sound may vary due to differing top materials, the essential typing experience retains certain similarities across both options.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we find distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sky V4 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, while the Sunset Gleam offers a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer a softer touch will likely favor the Sunset Gleam for its lighter feel, which can reduce finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience might gravitate towards the Sky V4's heavier forces. Overall, the Sunset Gleam is the lighter option, making it suitable for prolonged use, whereas the Sky V4, despite being slightly heavier, provides a firmer feedback that some may find satisfying.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, the Sky V4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sunset Gleam has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Sky V4 provides a deeper press compared to the Sunset Gleam, which may feel more substantial and satisfying for users who prefer a hearty depth. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam, with its shorter travel distance, could offer quicker responsiveness, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking faster reaction times. Ultimately, if you desire a switch that feels more abrupt and responsive, the Sunset Gleam would be the preferable option, whereas those leaning towards a more substantial tactile experience might opt for the Sky V4.
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 HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Sky V4 switch stands out for its deep and thocky acoustic profile, delivering a rich and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. The combination of POK material in its top housing contributes to a low-pitched, bass-heavy resonance that many typists find appealing. The neutral nature of the sound allows it to fit seamlessly into a variety of environments, making it suitable for both office and home use. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam's sound qualities are less defined based on the available information, leaving an open space for its acoustic performance to be assessed further. Nonetheless, both switches' auditory characteristics can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard build and keycap choice, meaning users could achieve a desirable sound profile with either option through careful selection.
In terms of feel, the Sky V4 is characterized by its bouncy action, which delivers a lively and elastic feedback sensation. Typists can expect a spring-like rebound upon pressing, making for an enjoyable typing experience that enhances responsiveness and engagement with the keyboard. Unfortunately, the Sunset Gleam lacks a detailed description of its tactile feedback and feel, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. This absence of information suggests that prospective users may need to try the Sunset Gleam themselves to fully understand its tactile attributes.
Ultimately, both the Dareu Sky V4 and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches present their unique aspects. The Sky V4 garners attention for its deeper, thocky sound and bouncy feel, offering a satisfying typing experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. While the Sunset Gleam's specifications remain vague, each switch can potentially cater to different preferences depending on the user's familiarity and the context in which they are used. Similar results in sound and feel could still be achieved through various keyboard builds and keycap materials, allowing enthusiasts to tailor their typing experience to their liking.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, your decision should be guided by your personal typing preferences and the specific experience you seek. If you prefer a medium-light actuation force and appreciate a deeper, thocky sound profile that enhances tactile satisfaction, the Sky V4 is a compelling choice. Its unique POK material construction creates a rich auditory experience along with a bouncy feel that adds a delightful feedback sensation as you type. This makes it an excellent option for typists who value both sound quality and a lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you're drawn to a lighter actuation force for quick typing sessions and enjoy a subtle yet satisfying clack sound, the HMX Sunset Gleam would be ideal. Its factory lube ensures smooth key presses, which can enhance comfort during extended use. In essence, your choice should reflect whether you’d prefer a more robust auditory experience or a lighter, breezier typing feel. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing styles; consider what aspects matter most to you in order to make the best decision.
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