Dareu Sky V4 vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V4 and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Dareu Sky V4, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch. The Sky V4 stands out with its use of POK material in the top housing, creating a deeper sound signature that complements its smooth linear action. This switch offers a rich and satisfying typing experience, categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Ts are praised for their fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile along with assertive tactile feedback. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Sharp', the U4T ensures both auditory and tactile satisfaction with each keystroke. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky V4 and the Gazzew U4T, it is evident that both switches prioritize delivering a rich and deep sound profile. The Sky V4 utilizes a POK top housing known for its smoothness and durability, while the U4T incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also focusing on sound quality through its softness. Both switches offer a clacky feel, but achieve this through different materials - POK for the Sky V4 and the Gazzew blend for the U4T. Despite these differences, users can expect a similar result in terms of sound experience with either switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Sky V4 features a nylon material that enhances the sound profile by absorbing more sound due to its softer nature. The Gazzew U4T, on the other hand, boasts a proprietary blend that also contributes to a rich and deep sound profile. Both bottom housings are designed to create a duller and rounder sound, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Although the materials used in the bottom housings differ, the end result in sound quality is likely to be comparable between the two switches.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall feel and sound of the switches, it becomes clear that each component plays a crucial role in shaping the user experience. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing has a larger impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite utilizing different materials for their top and bottom housings, the Dareu Sky V4 and Gazzew U4T aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience through their unique material compositions, ensuring users receive a combination of smoothness, durability, and rich sound profiles.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the U4T has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Sky V4 has a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Sky V4 is lighter in terms of actuation force but has a slightly higher bottom out force, while the U4T is heavier overall with a higher bottom out force. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on the weight preferences of the user. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the Sky V4, perfect for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push may choose the U4T for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of the two switches provide a variety of options for users seeking different typing feels.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Sky V4 will offer a slightly quicker key press response, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster input speed. On the other hand, the U4T's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press feel for those who prefer a deeper actuation. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their travel distances, so choosing between them will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 U4T 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound profile that delivers a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch provides a bassy thock along with assertive tactile feedback, giving each keystroke an auditory and tactile satisfaction. Both switches offer a rich sound experience, with the Sky V4 leaning towards a deeper tone while the U4T emphasizes a bass-heavy sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Sky V4 is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that gives a lively feel and rebound when the keys are pressed. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T features a sharp tactile bump that offers a strong and crisp feedback intensity, making the tactile experience prominent and distinct with every keypress. The Sky V4 focuses on a bouncy sensation, while the U4T offers a more intense tactile feedback for a satisfying typing feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch both have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sky V4 excels in providing a deeper sound with a bouncy feel, while the U4T stands out with its bassy thock sound paired with sharp tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a deeper sound with a spring-like feel or a bass-heavy thock with intense tactile feedback, both switches offer a rewarding typing experience that is sure to meet your preferences in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feedback. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a deeper sound and smooth linear action, the Sky V4 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bassy 'thock' sound profile and strong tactile feedback, the U4T could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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