HMX Deep Navy vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often comes down to personal preference, and two notable contenders in the linear switch category are the HMX Deep Navy and the Dareu Sky POM. The Deep Navy switch stands out with its rich, sharp sound profile and full nylon construction, providing users with a silky smooth typing experience thanks to its Ly stem design. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound and durability in their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a unique blend of a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, all while being crafted from high-quality POM material at an accessible price point. Its gentle actuation force makes it particularly appealing for users who seek a more effortless typing experience. While both switches provide a linear feel that minimizes tactile feedback, they cater to different preferences in sound and construction. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Ly
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and the Dareu Sky POM switches differ primarily in their top housing materials, which significantly influences their sound profiles. The Deep Navy switch features a nylon top housing, known for its classic characteristics that produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This material absorbs sound better than harder plastics, leading to a duller and more rounded audio experience. In contrast, the Sky POM employs a POM top housing that also contributes to a deeper sound, but with a distinctly unique and pleasing quality. Although both top housings deliver similar end results in terms of sound depth, the textural differences in the materials can create subtle variations in how these sounds are produced during typing.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a material revered for its sound-dampening properties. The nylon bottom housing used in both the HMX Deep Navy and the Dareu Sky POM creates a fuller audio experience, as the softness of the material helps in absorbing sound. This results in a consistent bottom-out sound and feel across both switches. The fact that both switches share the same bottom housing material suggests that they are likely to exhibit similar characteristics in this aspect, leading to an overall muted sound profile that complements the unique qualities brought in by the respective top housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of materials used in both the Deep Navy and Sky POM switches showcases how different housing materials can influence the sound and feel of a mechanical switch. While the top housings yield distinct sound profiles that set them apart, the identical nylon bottom housings contribute similarly to the auditory experience. This interplay means that regardless of the variances in top housings, the resulting tactile and auditory feedback during use remains consistently deep and mellow in both switches, creating an enjoyable typing experience that caters to preference-based nuances in sound.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 40 grams, providing a consistent click feel for users when triggering keystrokes. This means that both switches will respond similarly during typing, making them suitable for prolonged use, whether in an office or gaming setting. However, the Deep Navy switch has a bottom out force of 45 grams, indicating that it requires slightly more effort to press the key all the way down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Sky POM switch is unknown, leaving a gap in the comparison for users who prefer a firmer feel when bottoming out. Overall, since the actuation forces are equal, users can expect similar responsiveness from both switches. Nevertheless, the Deep Navy switch is notably the heavier option due to its additional bottom out force, which may lead to a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The lighter key feel may suit users looking for ease during extended typing sessions.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Deep Navy the shorter option, offering a more responsive feel which is often favored by gamers looking for quicker keystrokes. In contrast, the Sky POM, with its longer distance, provides a bit more tactile depth that some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference: if you prioritize responsiveness, the Deep Navy would be ideal, whereas if you prefer a deeper keystroke, the Sky POM would be a better fit.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is characterized by a rich and sharp tone, allowing typists to engage with their keystrokes in a more immersive manner. This switch's full nylon construction contributes to a distinctive auditory experience, though the exact pitch can be subject to personal interpretation and is influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycap materials used. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch produces a low-pitched, more bass-heavy sound that lends itself to a mellower typing experience. This tonal quality can be described as clacky, offering an interesting alternative for users who may prefer a more pronounced auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch emphasizes a buttery, creamy, and silky smoothness that enhances the typing experience significantly. Users can expect a seamless and uniform sensation with minimal resistance, which can make extended typing sessions more comfortable and enjoyable. The Sky POM switch also aims for an exceptional smoothness, providing a buttery, creamy texture that ensures effortless activation of each keystroke. This combination of factors creates a typing experience that feels luxurious and easy, giving both switches a strong appeal for those who prioritize smoothness in their keyboard interactions.
In conclusion, while the Deep Navy switches offer a rich and sharp sound profile paired with remarkably smooth keystrokes, the Dareu Sky POM switches provide a low-pitched clacky sound alongside their own silky smooth feel. Although their auditory qualities differ, both switches excel in creating a pleasurable typing experience characterized by smoothness and comfort. Therefore, users seeking premium quality in linears will be satisfied with either switch, though personal preferences for sound may guide the ultimate choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and force. If you favor a lightweight keypress and appreciate the rich, sharp sound that the Deep Navy provides, then its 45-gram bottom-out force and smooth Ly stem make it an excellent choice for those who want a tactile and harmonious typing experience. The Deep Navy's full nylon construction enhances its durability and acoustic profile, appealing particularly to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, if you're looking for a buttery and creamy typing feel with a clackier sound profile, then the Sky POM might be the better option for you. Its premium POM material offers exceptional smoothness, making it delightful for fast typing or gaming sessions, all while remaining budget-friendly. In summary, opt for the Deep Navy for a tactile, satisfying sound experience, while the Sky POM will be your go-to for a fluid, low-pitched keystroke that promotes speed and efficiency.
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