Dareu Sky V4 vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V4 and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Sky V4 and Gazzew U4 offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sky V4 is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action. Typists can expect a rich and satisfying typing experience with this switch, which is characterized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch that boasts a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, paired with a plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation. With a whisper-quiet sound profile, the U4 is categorized as 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', and 'Sharp'. Each switch has its own unique advantages, but diving deeper into their features and characteristics will help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky V4 and the Gazzew U4 both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall feel and sound of the switches. The Sky V4 utilizes a POK top housing, known for its smooth and durable properties, while the U4 boasts a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing that delivers a rich and deep sound profile. Although they differ in material composition, both top housings aim to provide a comfortable typing experience with their respective qualities.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Sky V4 features a nylon material that enhances the sound profile of the switches by creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Similarly, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also aims to deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Despite their differences in material, both bottom housings are designed to absorb sound and create a more muted and rounded typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Sky V4 and the Gazzew U4 offer distinct housing materials that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the Sky V4 focuses on a combination of POK and nylon for a smooth and clacky typing experience, the U4's blend of Gazzew plastics aims to deliver a rich and deep sound profile. Whether you prefer a smoother typing experience with the Sky V4 or a richer sound profile with the U4, both switches offer unique housing materials that contribute to an enhanced typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have some key differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Sky V4 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the U4, which also has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the U4 is heavier with a force of 62 grams, while the Sky V4 has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the U4 provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Sky V4 offers a lighter feel for longer typing sessions. Both switches have the same actuation force, so users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference for lighter or heavier force feedback during typing or gaming.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is 3.6 mm, making them equal in this regard. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect consistent feedback and actuation point with either switch, providing a comfortable typing experience regardless of which option they choose. Ultimately, the similarities in travel distance between the Dareu Sky V4 and the Gazzew U4 make them equally suitable choices for individuals seeking a linear or tactile typing 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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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 offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch produces a muted and low-pitched sound, creating a softer and quieter typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasant typing sound, but the Sky V4 provides a deeper and more pronounced thocky sound compared to the U4's muted sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, promising a spring-like feedback sensation that adds liveliness to each keypress. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a sharp tactile experience with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with every press. Both switches deliver a unique tactile feel, with the Sky V4 offering a bouncy and lively feel, while the U4 provides a sharp and intense tactile feedback.
Overall, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch excels in providing a deep and bouncy typing experience with a thocky sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a satisfying and responsive typing feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a muted sound profile and a sharp tactile bump, providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinctive qualities that will cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a deeper, bouncy typing experience (Sky V4) or a quieter, sharp tactile feel (U4).
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a typist who values a smooth linear action and a deeper sound signature, the Dareu Sky V4 switch with its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp tactile bump and a plush bottom-out sensation with a whisper quiet sound profile, the Gazzew U4 switch with its medium bottom out force of 62 grams would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a satisfying typing experience with a thocky sound (Sky V4) or a silent, tactile typing experience with a muted sound (U4). Consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches.
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