Dareu Sky V4 vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Sky V4 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream both offer unique experiences tailored to different preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Sky V4 is revered for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, which results in a deeper, more thocky sound signature and a smooth linear action that many typists find satisfying. This switch is often appreciated for its neutral feel and a bouncy characteristic that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream, which incorporates POK material in both the stem and bottom housing, delivers a buttery, creamy touch that echoes the delightful feel of its namesake. This switch is characterized by its high-pitched, clacky acoustic profile, offering a more resonant typing experience that stands out in the market. Both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for distinct tactile sensations and sound profiles, making the choice dependent on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky V4 and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches, one notable distinction lies in their top housings. The Sky V4 features a POK top housing, recognized for its smoothness and durability, with a coefficient of friction at 0.04. This material provides exceptional wear resistance, outlasting many traditional options like POM and Nylon, ultimately resulting in switches that produce a clacky, satisfying sound. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream utilizes a proprietary blend of materials for its top housing, emphasizing a high-pitched and clacky acoustics as well. While both switches aim for a desirable sound profile, the specific makeup of the KTT's blend is less defined than the POK's proven attributes, which may lead to slight variances in user experience.

The bottom housings of these two switches present an intriguing comparison as well, with the Sky V4 using Nylon and the Vanilla Ice Cream sporting a POK bottom housing. The softness of Nylon is known to absorb sound, leading to a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This characteristic differs greatly from the clacky and smooth response offered by the POK material. Given that the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel more significantly, users of the Sky V4 might find a more muted yet rounded sound signature, while those using the Vanilla Ice Cream may enjoy a brighter and sharper auditory feedback. Thus, while both switches feature a strong construction, the interplay of their bottom materials produces divergent sound profiles.

Moreover, the combination of materials in these switches influences the overall typing experience. The Sky V4 benefits from the rugged durability of POK in its top housing and the softer Nylon in its bottom, creating an engaging contrast that caters to a range of audial preferences. The Vanilla Ice Cream leverages the strength of the POK material for both top and bottom housings, which may result in a more uniform feel across the keypress. Ultimately, while both switches can offer satisfying tactile feedback and sound profiles, the specific attributes of their respective materials lead to unique user experiences. Those seeking a deeper sound may prefer the Sky V4, while those looking for an elevated clack may find the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream more pleasing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, significant differences emerge. The Sky V4 has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, positioning it as a medium-light option. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream features a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, categorizing it as light. This means that for users who prefer a lighter touch, the Vanilla Ice Cream will likely provide a more comfortable, fatigue-free typing experience over extended periods, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may find the slightly heavier Sky V4 more satisfying. Ultimately, while both switches offer distinct tactile experiences due to their differing weights, the Vanilla Ice Cream is the lighter option, making it preferable for those seeking ease of use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, we find that the Sky V4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Vanilla Ice Cream has a slightly shorter distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch is marginally shorter, making it potentially more responsive for those who favor quicker actuation, particularly useful for gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Sky V4, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keypress feel, allowing for a heartier depth during typing or gaming. Overall, the difference in travel distance is minimal, but for those who prioritize responsiveness, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream would be the better choice, while the Dareu Sky V4 caters to those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keypresses.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is characterized by a deeper, thocky resonance that presents a rich auditory experience. This low-pitched sound signature gives it a satisfying thud-like quality, making it feel solid and substantial beneath the fingers during typing. In contrast, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch offers a high-pitched, clacky sound profile. With its marbly and resonant qualities, it delivers a sharp, clean auditory experience that stands out, providing a notable contrast to the lower tones of the Sky V4. Together, these switches highlight the diversity in sound signatures available to typists, from the deep and thocky notes of the Sky V4 to the crisp and resonant tones of the Vanilla Ice Cream.

When discussing the feel, the Sky V4 is noted for its bouncy action, which provides a lively and responsive typing experience that feels like a springy rebound with each keystroke. This sensation can enhance typing speed and enjoyment for those who favor a slightly more dynamic feel. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream is celebrated for its buttery and creamy texture, offering a smooth, gliding motion that makes typing feel effortless. This silky feeling can create a satisfying and fluid typing experience, contrasting with the more elastic feedback of the Sky V4. Thus, these switches cater to different typing preferences, with the Sky V4 delivering energetic feedback while the Vanilla Ice Cream provides a smooth and luxurious glide.

In summary, both the Dareu Sky V4 and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switches exhibit distinct qualities that can significantly influence the typing experience. The Sky V4 provides a deeper, thocky sound and a bouncy feel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a weighty and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream excels in high-pitched sound and a creamy, buttery feel, offering a more elegant and fluid typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding both auditory and tactile feedback, but each switch brings its unique flair to the mechanical keyboard landscape.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light actuation force that offers a deeper, thocky sound with a bouncy feel, the Sky V4 is an excellent option. This makes it a great choice for typists who enjoy a more satisfying, rich auditory experience while also benefiting from a responsive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you lean towards a lighter actuation force and are drawn to high-pitched, resonant sounds, the Vanilla Ice Cream may be your go-to. Its buttery and creamy feel allows for an incredibly smooth typing experience, much like gliding across the keys, which can be particularly rewarding for those who type for long periods or appreciate a more playful sound. Ultimately, consider what sensations you value most in your typing experience—whether it's a lively bounce and thocky sound from the Sky V4 or the creamy smoothness and high-pitched resonance of the Vanilla Ice Cream. Your keyboard choice should reflect your unique style and needs.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Sky V4 Linear

$7.78

$4.76 per 10

Learn more

KTT Vanilla Ice Cream Linear

$5.78

$4.60 per 10

Learn more