Dareu Sky V4 vs. Bsun Taichi
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V4 and the Bsun Taichi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky V4 and the Bsun Taichi both stand out as beloved options for those who prefer linear switches, each offering a unique typing experience. The Dareu Sky V4 is distinguished by its innovative POK material in the top housing, which not only enhances durability but also produces a deeper, 'thocky' sound signature that many typists find satisfying. Its smooth linear action combined with a low-pitched, bouncy feel makes it an ideal choice for users seeking a richer auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Bsun Taichi excels with its long-pole stem and extended springs, delivering an enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound that adds an element of charm to each keystroke, all while providing consistent smoothness and stability. While both switches cater to fans of linear feel, the choice between the Sky V4's deeper sound profile and the Taichi's light, airy feedback often depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
21mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In the comparison of the Dareu Sky V4 and the Bsun Taichi, one noteworthy distinction lies in their top housing materials. The Sky V4 features a POK material characterized by its low coefficient of friction and exceptional durability, resulting in a smooth and resilient switch experience. In contrast, the Taichi uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which, although stiffer, offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its structural properties. While both materials enhance the overall performance and sound of the switches, the POK is tailored for delivering a smoother feel, whereas polycarbonate prioritizes a clearer, more resonant auditory experience. If one were to utilize the Sky V4’s POK housing, they might achieve smoothness, while the polycarbonate top of the Taichi would be better suited for those seeking a pronounced acoustic clarity.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, both the Sky V4 and the Bsun Taichi employ nylon, which remains a classic choice within the keyboard switch community. Nylon's softer nature contributes to a deeper, fuller sound profile, making it an excellent option for those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback when typing. This shared material results in a consistent acoustic experience in terms of sound, as both switches will exhibit similar qualities in their bottom-out sound and feel. Despite the differences in their top housings, the use of nylon at the bottom means that users can expect a comparable auditory warmth and absorption of sound from both switches.
Overall, the varying top and consistent bottom housing materials create a unique interplay in each switch's performance. The Sky V4’s combination of POK and nylon allows for a smooth action with a deeper sound, while the Taichi's polycarbonate top brings an element of clarity to the familiar nylon base's depth. While both switches leverage nylon for their bottom housings, the impact of different top materials on sound signature and tactile feedback highlights how switch design can cater to diverse user preferences. Thus, users can select between the two based on whether they prioritize smoothness and durability or sharpness and resonance in their theoretical switch experience.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch exhibit notable differences in their actuation forces, which can significantly influence user experience. The Sky V4 requires an actuation force of 45 grams, categorizing it as medium-light, while the Taichi is lighter with an actuation force of only 40 grams. This makes the Taichi a preferable choice for those who appreciate a softer touch, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the Taichi is unknown, while the Sky V4 has a bottom out force of 55 grams, indicating a stronger resistance when fully pressed. This difference means that users of the Sky V4 may experience a more pronounced feedback when bottoming out, providing a more substantial typing experience. In summary, while the Taichi offers a lighter actuation force, the Sky V4 compensates with its defined bottom out resistance, catering to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch have an identical travel distance of 3.6 mm, which means they will provide a similar tactile response when pressed. This equal measurement indicates that users can expect a comparable feel in terms of key engagement and actuation between the two switches. The consistent distance allows for similar results in typing or gaming scenarios, meaning that neither switch has a distinct advantage over the other in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, users can choose either switch without concern over variations in travel distance affecting their experience.
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 Bsun Taichi has an MSRP of $2.75 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taichi for $2.25.
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 linear switch is known for its thocky, low-pitched auditory profile, producing a deeper, richer sound when activated. This feature is augmented by the switch's POK material top housing, which enhances the overall acoustic experience, making it particularly satisfying for those who enjoy a more traditional, resonant keystroke. The sound is characterized by a soft "thud" or "knock," which can create a pleasant ambiance in both office and home settings. In contrast, while the Bsun Taichi switch does not have detailed sound characteristics outlined, it is noted for its enchanting high-pitched bottom-out sound, which implies a different auditory experience likely skewed toward a more elevated tone. This contrast indicates that those seeking a more high-fidelity sound may prefer the Taichi, whereas the Sky V4 will appeal to users prioritizing warmth and depth.
In terms of feel, the Sky V4 distinguishes itself with a bouncy sensation, contributing to an engaging typing experience. This elasticity in feedback can enhance the touch typing experience, providing a lively response that encourages rapid keystrokes and minimizes fatigue. The switch's design clearly aims to deliver a responsive and dynamic feel overall. Meanwhile, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Bsun Taichi linear switch, leaving its tactile characteristics unknown. However, the absence of data suggests that its feel could vary significantly from the Sky V4, making it essential for users to try both switches to determine personal preference.
In summary, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is characterized by its thocky, low-pitched sound and bouncy feel, making it a strong option for those who appreciate deeper acoustics and engaging tactile feedback. The Bsun Taichi switch offers a higher-pitched auditory experience that contrasts well with the Sky V4, though its tactile properties remain ambiguous. Users looking for a specific type of sound or feel may find that they can achieve similar satisfaction with each switch, depending on their unique preferences and environments, but should ultimately test both if possible to fully discern their differences.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Bsun Taichi linear switch, it's essential to consider your typing preferences and environment. If you're looking for a switch that provides a medium-light actuation force with a satisfying thocky sound signature, the Sky V4 is an excellent choice. Its use of POK material in the top housing ensures a rich auditory experience, making it suitable for both casual typing and professional environments where a deeper tone can offer a sense of comfort and quality. Its bouncy feel adds to the overall typing enjoyment, allowing for a lively interaction with your keyboard. On the other hand, if you are drawn to a keyboard switch that emphasizes smoothness and stability with a high-pitched sound, the Bsun Taichi might be more appealing, although specific details like its bottom-out force are unavailable. Its features promise a different auditory experience and could be ideal for those who prefer a distinct sound profile that stands out. Ultimately, the choice comes down to whether you prioritize a punchy sound and lively feedback or a smoother, higher-pitched experience.
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