Gateron CM vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The CM switch stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a richer and deeper sound signature compared to the POM material used in the Sky POM switch. Additionally, the CM switch offers a bouncy typing experience with its lengthened, dual-staged spring, while the Sky POM switch boasts exceptional smoothness and a gentle actuation force. Both switches are categorized as 'Buttery' and 'Low-pitched,' but the CM switch is also described as 'Bassy,' 'Polished,' 'Thocky,' 'Creamy,' and 'Frictionless,' while the Sky POM switch is characterized as 'Silky.' However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Dareu Sky POM, both switches have top housings made of different materials. The CM utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. Conversely, the Sky POM features a POM top housing, known for creating a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively muted. While both materials offer a distinctive sound profile, the nylon in the CM may offer a rounder sound compared to the POM in the Sky.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Gateron CM and the Dareu Sky POM feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound due to its softer composition. This means that regardless of the switch, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will result in a similar duller and rounder sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures consistency in sound and typing experience, highlighting the qualities of a classic switch housing material.
When considering how the top and bottom housings impact the overall typing experience, it becomes evident that the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing is more influential on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities ensures that users of both the Gateron CM and the Dareu Sky POM experience a balanced and unique typing experience that combines the characteristics of both the top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron CM linear switch to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The CM has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams, making the CM switch slightly heavier to press down initially. Additionally, the CM switch has a higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is not available. The CM switch provides a medium-heavy typing experience, suitable for those who prefer a more substantial push feel. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out forces, making it ideal for users who value a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch hass a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gateron CM has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dareu Sky POM. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times, the slight difference may still be noticeable to some users. The shorter travel distance of the Gateron CM may provide a quicker and more responsive keystroke, while the Dareu Sky POM with its slightly longer travel distance may offer a more deliberate and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 Gateron CM linear switch offers a deep and rich profile with a bassy and thocky sound, providing a satisfying auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch also leans towards a low-pitched sound, delivering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches aim to provide a pleasing sound experience, with the CM switch offering a potentially richer and deeper sound compared to the Sky POM switch. It is important to note that the actual sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron CM and Dareu Sky POM linear switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience. The CM switch is described as buttery, polished, and creamy, offering a seamless, refined, and frictionless keystroke sensation. Similarly, the Sky POM switch is also characterized by its buttery and creamy feel, boasting a silky typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Overall, both switches prioritize a smooth and uniform typing feel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, while the Gateron CM linear switch may offer a potentially richer and deeper sound profile with its bassy and thocky characteristics, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch also excels in providing a pleasant low-pitched sound experience. When it comes to feel, both switches prioritize a smooth, buttery, and creamy typing sensation, ensuring a frictionless and effortless keystroke experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches may depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, as both options offer high-quality performance at different price points.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Gateron CM linear switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a deep, rich sound profile with a buttery typing experience, the Gateron CM linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a smooth, buttery typing experience, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual typing preferences and priorities in terms of sound and feel.
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