TTC Gold Red vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red and Dareu Sky V3 mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. The Gold Red is known for its snappy sound profile and subtle personality, while the Sky V3 is celebrated for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, catering to a diverse range of typing preferences. Depending on whether you prefer a touch of personality or a more subdued typing experience, either switch could be a great choice. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Both the TTC Gold Red and the Dareu Sky V3 utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The similarities in the top housing material of both switches suggest that users can expect similar sound profiles and responsiveness when using either the Gold Red or the Sky V3.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the Gold Red opts for a nylon bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a rounder sound. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V3 also uses a nylon bottom housing for similar reasons, offering users a more muted and cushioned typing experience. The differences in bottom housing materials between the Gold Red and the Sky V3 highlight the unique tactile and acoustic characteristics each switch offers.
When comparing the housing materials of the Gold Red and the Sky V3, it is evident that the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in each switch results in distinct typing experiences. The split between top and bottom housing materials in both switches allows users to feel the impact of the bottom housing during key presses, while also experiencing the sound produced by the top housing when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the Gold Red with its polycarbonate top housing, or the deeper and fuller sound of the Dareu Sky V3 with its nylon bottom housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Red is slightly lighter in terms of force. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Sky V3 has an actuation force of 40 grams. The bottom out force for the Sky V3 is unknown. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Gold Red for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the Sky V3 for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer a different typing feel, with the Gold Red providing a lighter touch and the Sky V3 potentially offering a slightly heavier push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows for consistent typing experiences regardless of which switch is used. In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches offer a travel distance of 4mm, providing users with a familiar typing feel across both options.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 TTC Gold Red linear switch is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched profile, offering a deep and satisfying noise with a moderate actuation force requirement. This type of switch can provide a pleasing auditory experience without being too loud or distracting. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound, striking a balance between a dampened tone and a moderate actuation force. The Sky V3 switch may be more suitable for quiet environments or shared spaces where a quieter typing experience is preferred.
In terms of feel, both the TTC Gold Red and Dareu Sky V3 switches are described as providing a mild typing experience, catering to a wide range of users with their approachable qualities. The Gold Red switch stands out for its silky and subtle feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with gentle resistance. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch is highlighted for its mild characteristics, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness.
In conclusion, while the TTC Gold Red and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches have their own unique sound and feel profiles, they both offer a pleasant and comfortable typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper, more pronounced sound like the Gold Red switch or a more neutral and subdued sound like the Sky V3 switch, both options cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red linear switch or the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a light-medium level of resistance with a buttery smooth typing experience and a snappy sound profile, then the Gold Red switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound signature and medium-light weight that offers a balance of comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 switch could be more suitable. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
