Dareu Sky V4 vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky V4 and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Sky V4 and the SP-Star Yanyu both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sky V4 switch stands out for its utilization of POK material in the top housing, resulting in a deeper sound signature and smooth linear action that provides a rich and satisfying typing experience. Categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', the Sky V4 is ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing sensation. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is praised for its delicate typing experience, making it perfect for prolonged typing sessions. With a material blend that gives it a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different typing 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Sky V4 and the SP-Star Yanyu feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and durability. The Sky V4's POK top housing is known for its smoothness and durability, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a pleasant and bright sound profile. The difference in materials may result in slightly different typing experiences, with the Sky V4 potentially offering a smoother feel and the Yanyu providing a brighter sound when keys are released.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Sky V4's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing offers a unique sound profile that is described as pleasant and slightly brighter. The difference in bottom housing materials may result in a variance in sound when keys are pressed down, with the Sky V4 potentially offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the Yanyu's blend.
While the housing materials for the Dareu Sky V4 and the SP-Star Yanyu may differ, both switches provide a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their housing materials. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of each switch. Whether you prefer a smoother, clacky feel with the Sky V4's POK top housing or a pleasant, bright sound profile with the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force at 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Yanyu is lighter at 43 grams, while the Sky V4 requires 55 grams to bottom out. This means that the Yanyu switch is lighter overall than the Sky V4. The Sky V4 may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, while the Yanyu may be better suited for individuals who prefer a lighter touch. Both switches offer different levels of resistance that cater to the personal preferences of the user.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Sky V4 offers a slightly quicker keypress due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers may find this advantageous for faster response times. On the other hand, the Yanyu provides a slightly deeper press, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and rich typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch also provides a thocky sound profile but is described as more neutral. Both switches are suitable for various typing needs, whether for work or leisure, and the sound produced will also depend on factors such as keyboard and keycap choices.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is characterized by its bouncy sensation, offering a lively and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a mild and feathery feel, providing a more gentle typing experience suitable for extended use without causing fatigue. The Yanyu switch also boasts a subtle and polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing sessions.
Overall, both the Dareu Sky V4 and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Sky V4 excels in providing a deep and satisfying sound with a bouncy feel, the Yanyu offers a more delicate typing experience with a focus on light actuation force and smooth key travel. Whether you choose one over the other will depend on your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a deeper, rich sound profile, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its POK material in the top housing, you can enjoy a satisfying typing experience with smooth linear action and a thocky sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more delicate typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is the way to go. Its material blend creates a crisp sound profile that is perfect for long typing sessions. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to ensure you have the best keyboard switch for your needs.
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