Bsun Pine vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Pine and the Dareu Sky V3 offer unique typing experiences worth considering. The Bsun Pine is a tactile switch known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility favored by many. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is a linear switch with a neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a balance between comfort and precision that caters to a wide range of typing preferences. While the Pine switch is accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, the Sky V3 switch is neutral, subdued, and mild. As you ponder which switch would best suit your needs, it's important to look beyond these generalities and delve deeper into the unique characteristics of each switch.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Pine and Dareu Sky V3 have some similarities when it comes to their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches intended for RGB lighting. While both switches share these characteristics in their top housings, they may offer different experiences in terms of the overall sound and feel.
In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of the Pine and Sky V3 differ slightly in their sound profiles. The Pine's nylon bottom housing is noted for producing a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder profile. Similarly, the Sky V3's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, though the specifics may vary based on the switch's design. Despite these differences, both switches offer a distinct typing experience thanks to their choice of nylon for the bottom housing.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Bsun Pine and Dareu Sky V3 allows for a balanced typing experience. The split between top and bottom housings means that the qualities of each material are felt in different aspects of typing. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. By featuring a mix of polycarbonate and nylon in their housings, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to various preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we can see that the Pine has a slightly heavier actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Sky V3's 40 grams. However, the Pine also has a heavier bottom out force at 65 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Sky V3 is unknown. This means that the Pine switch offers a more substantial typing experience with both a heavier actuation and bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky V3 may be more suitable due to its lighter actuation force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Pine providing a more forceful typing experience and the Sky V3 offering a potentially lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Sky V3's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press. Both switches offer different tactile feels due to their varying travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on personal preference for responsiveness versus depth in key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The Dareu Sky V3 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 V3 for $4.76.
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 Bsun Pine tactile switch is known for its sharp and distinct click with each keystroke, providing a satisfying auditory feedback for users who enjoy a more pronounced sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a neutral and subdued sound, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments and preferences. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard in determining the sound experience you'll get from either switch.
Regarding feel, the Bsun Pine tactile switch is characterized by its invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, offering a responsive and immersive typing sensation that is both distinctive and enjoyable for tactile enthusiasts. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch provides a milder typing experience, falling into the safe middle-ground zone with a gentle and approachable feel that caters to a wider range of users. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, but the Pine switch is more intense and direct, while the Sky V3 switch is more subtle and versatile.
Overall, the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch each have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Pine switch excels in providing sharp tactile feedback and a distinct sound profile, ideal for users who prefer a more direct and intense typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch offers a neutral sound signature and a mild typing feel, making it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a switch with a sharp tactile bump, fast action, and distinct feedback, the Pine switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound signature, medium-light weight, and a more gentle typing experience, the Sky V3 switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what type of typing experience you are looking for and what characteristics are most important to you. Choose wisely based on your individual preferences and enjoy the satisfying typing experience these switches can offer.
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