Kailh Box White vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh Box White and Dareu Sky POM offer distinct features and advantages to consider. The Kailh Box White is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback, with a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM is a linear switch made entirely from POM material, known for its clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. While the Box White offers a resonant and high-pitched typing experience, the Sky POM delivers a buttery and low-pitched feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Dareu Sky POM, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This choice of material results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile for the Box White, while the POM top housing of the Sky POM produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, the difference in sound profiles created by the top housing materials offers a distinct experience for users of each switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Box White and Sky POM switches feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties, which absorb more sound and result in a rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing materials means that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either switch. Both switches benefit from the qualities of nylon, providing a classic and pleasant typing experience for users.
When considering how the different housing materials impact the overall sound profile of the switches, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, are felt when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. While both the Box White and Sky POM switches offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, the split between top and bottom housing characteristics allows users to enjoy a balanced and dynamic typing experience with either switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Box White has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the 40 grams of the Sky POM. In terms of bottom out force, the Box White requires 60 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. This difference in actuation force makes the Box White switch feel slightly heavier to press than the Sky POM switch. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Sky POM may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Box White switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Dareu Sky POM linear switch's 3.8 mm travel distance. This means that the Box White offers a slightly shorter distance for key presses compared to the Sky POM. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for gaming due to faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may be noticeable to some users. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Kailh Box White clicky switch may be the better option, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a slightly deeper key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky POM 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 POM for $4.98.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box White clicky switch offers a resonant and high-pitched typing experience, reminiscent of the sound of stepping on crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch provides a low-pitched and clacky sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to the Box White. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Dareu Sky POM switch is often characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a higher-pitched and resonant sound with a polished feel, the Box White switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched and clacky sound with a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, the Sky POM switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it really depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a tactile and clicky typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a high-pitched, resonant sound, then the Box White switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing feel with a lower-pitched sound profile and an unknown bottom out force, the Sky POM switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you while typing.
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