Dareu Sky V4 vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V4 and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Sky V4 and the HMX Xinhai, both of which are linear switches. The Sky V4 stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound profile that pairs well with its smooth linear action, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Xinhai features a unique PA12 top housing for a softer sound and a POM stem for a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, offering a blend of sophistication and performance. While the Sky V4 is praised for its 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched' feel, the Xinhai is lauded for being 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', and 'Creamy'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different preferences, but diving deeper into their specific attributes will help you make an informed decision on which switch suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
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
The Dareu Sky V4 and the HMX Xinhai both utilize different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The Sky V4's POK top housing offers a smooth, clacky, and durable feel, while the Xinhai's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both materials excel in different aspects - the POK material is known for its durability and smoothness, while polycarbonate offers a clearer and resonant sound. However, they both contribute to creating an overall premium typing experience, albeit with varying characteristics.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both the Sky V4 and Xinhai provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to their softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While the top housing of a switch influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. In this aspect, both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon, ensuring a satisfying typing experience with a rich sound profile.
Overall, while the Dareu Sky V4 and the HMX Xinhai differ in their top housing materials, they both offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the typing experience. Whether it's the smooth and durable POK material of the Sky V4 or the sharper and clearer sound profile of the Xinhai's polycarbonate, these switches provide distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. Additionally, the utilization of nylon for the bottom housings of both switches ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile, adding to the overall typing satisfaction. Ultimately, both switches offer premium housing materials that contribute to an enhanced typing experience, each with its unique set of advantages.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is clear that the Xinhai is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Sky V4 is the heavier option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Xinhai provides a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer to type for long periods without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, the Sky V4 offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which may appeal to users who prefer a stronger push feel when typing. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between them ultimately depends on the user's personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Xinhai with a shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper, more satisfying keystroke may lean towards the Sky V4 with a slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific feel that each user is looking for in their keyboard.
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 Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offers a thocky sound profile, characterized by a deep and satisfying "thud" when pressed. This, combined with its smooth linear action, provides a rich and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and crisp sound that adds a sense of brightness and percussiveness to each keystroke. Both switches offer unique acoustics profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Sky V4 leaning towards a deeper tone and the Xinhai offering a more vibrant and snappy sound.
When it comes to feel, both switches share the descriptor of being bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that enhances typing speed and overall comfort. Additionally, the Xinhai switch is noted for its creamy feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels akin to effortlessly gliding across the keys. This added feature adds a layer of sophistication and luxury to the typing experience, making the Xinhai switch stand out for those who appreciate a more seamless keypress.
Overall, the Dareu Sky V4 and HMX Xinhai linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Sky V4 excels in delivering a deeper and more satisfying thocky sound profile and a bouncy feel, the Xinhai impresses with its clacky sound signature and creamy, luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, but rest assured that both switches offer high-quality performance and a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a deep, rich sound with a smooth linear action, the Sky V4 would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a crisp, higher-pitched sound, and a softer acoustics profile, the Xinhai would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force when selecting between these two high-quality linear switches.
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