Dareu Sky V4 vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V4 and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky V4 and the PH Studio Yoel both stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The Sky V4 is recognized for its use of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature that pairs perfectly with its smooth linear action. On the other hand, the Yoel, produced by BSUN, offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky profile that creates a satisfying resonance upon bottoming out keys. While the Sky V4 is known for being 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', the Yoel is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Marbly', 'Polished', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. Both switches have their unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, 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
53g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky V4 and the PH Studio Yoel, one notable difference is the top housing material. The Sky V4 utilizes POK material, known for its smoothness and durability, while the Yoel features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile. While both materials are strong and resistant to wear, the POK material provides a clacky sound, whereas the polycarbonate material offers a higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the Yoel.
Moving on to the bottom housing material, the Sky V4 includes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Yoel's POM bottom housing creates a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. The use of different bottom housing materials in these switches showcases how each material can impact the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. While the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a rounder sound, the POM material offers a more distinctive and deeper sound experience.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing. The Dareu Sky V4 and the PH Studio Yoel each offer a unique experience based on their housing materials. While the Sky V4 focuses on smoothness and durability with its POK top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Yoel prioritizes a sharper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and POM bottom housing. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 53 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Sky V4 requires 55 grams of force, while the Yoel requires 60 grams. This makes the Sky V4 a more medium-light option, while the Yoel is more of a medium option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Sky V4 may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Yoel switch. Overall, both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. The Sky V4 offers a tad more depth with its 3.6 mm travel distance, which may be preferred by some users who find shorter distances too abrupt. On the other hand, the Yoel with its 3.2 mm travel distance provides a slightly quicker key press that can be advantageous in fast-paced gaming scenarios. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the feeling you want when pressing down on the keys.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is characterized by a clacky and high-pitched sound, delivering a sharp and bright sound profile with a pronounced resonance at the bottom-out point. Typists who prefer a deeper and more mellow sound may lean towards the Sky V4, while those who enjoy a crisp and resonant sound may opt for the Yoel. Both switches offer unique sound signatures that can enhance the typing experience depending on personal preference.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feedback sensation when typing. In contrast, the PH Studio Yoel switch offers a creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, with smooth and refined key travel that minimizes resistance. Typists who enjoy a bouncy and lively feel may favor the Sky V4, while those who prefer a smooth and buttery sensation may lean towards the Yoel. Both switches offer different tactile feedback that can influence the overall typing experience based on individual preferences.
In summary, the Dareu Sky V4 and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Sky V4 boasts a deep and bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Yoel provides a bright and clacky typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether the typist prioritizes sound, feel, or a combination of both qualities in their mechanical keyboard switch selection. Both switches provide a unique typing experience, and users can expect satisfying results with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch or the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, you should take into account a few key factors. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a unique typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Sky V4 may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a bright, clacky sound profile with a chewy typing experience, the Yoel switch might be more to your liking. Additionally, if you enjoy a thocky, bouncy feel from your switches, the Sky V4 may be the better option, whereas if you prefer a creamy, polished, or silky feel, the Yoel could be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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