TTC Brother vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch stand out as notable contenders. The TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience that is both satisfying and effortless. With a crunchy sound signature that resonates with precision, it is a top choice for enthusiasts who appreciate clear and crisp feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a premium quality experience at an accessible price point, thanks to its construction entirely from POM material. Known for its clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, this switch boasts a gentle actuation force that ensures a seamless typing experience. While the TTC Brother excels in providing a tactile and audible typing experience, the Dareu Sky POM focuses on offering a smooth and quiet keystroke. 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
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Dareu Sky POM, the main difference lies in the top housing material. The Brother features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile with RGB lighting capabilities, while the Sky POM utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials have their unique advantages, with polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound, and POM offering a pleasing and unique sound experience.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Brother and the Sky POM utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housing. Despite both switches using nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in top housing between the Brother and the Sky POM still impacts the overall sound experience and feel of typing on these switches.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Brother and the Dareu Sky POM will depend on personal preference for sound profile and aesthetic features. While both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, the unique characteristics of polycarbonate in the Brother and POM in the Sky POM's top housing create distinct sound experiences. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound with RGB lighting capabilities or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with their combination of housing materials.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch with an actuation force of 40 grams. In terms of bottom out force, both switches have an unknown value. The lighter actuation force of the Brother switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter keystroke, allowing for longer typing or gaming sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Sky POM switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer push feel. While the bottom out force is unknown for both switches, users can expect similar results in terms of how far the key needs to be pressed down for a keystroke to register, as long as the actuation force is taken into consideration. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the TTC Brother clicky switch is 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Brother has a shorter travel distance compared to the Sky POM. The Brother's 3.5 mm travel distance may provide a quicker response time for gamers who prefer a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky POM's longer 3.8 mm travel distance may offer a more satisfying and deeper keystroke for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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.
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 TTC Brother clicky switch offers a satisfyingly crunchy sound signature that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves, a trademark sound characteristic of clicky switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is known for its low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the auditory experience of these switches will vary depending on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for actuation, making typing effortless and comfortable. Additionally, it features a stepped design, offering a tactile feedback that is distinct yet gentle. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is often described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with minimal resistance during key presses. With its premium POM material construction, the Sky POM switch sets itself apart with its exceptional smoothness.
In conclusion, while the TTC Brother clicky switch excels in providing a crunchy sound signature and easy-to-press tactile feedback, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch shines with its smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, whether you enjoy the audible satisfaction of a clicky switch or the smoothness of a linear switch. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a light actuation force, crisp clicky sound, and a balanced tactile feedback, the Brother switch is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, buttery feel with a clacky sound and low actuation force, the Sky POM switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the type of typing experience you find most enjoyable and comfortable.
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