HMX EMO vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the HMX EMO and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX EMO and Dareu Sky POM both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX EMO is a linear switch known for its lively and clacky feel, coupled with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force. It provides an effortless and bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM is also a linear switch crafted entirely from POM material, offering a premium quality typing experience at an accessible price point. It is characterized by its clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. While the HMX EMO is favored for its lively feel, the Dareu Sky POM stands out for its smoothness and premium quality. 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the HMX EMO and the Dareu Sky POM, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches creates a sharper and clearer sound profile, especially in the case of the EMO. However, the Sky POM's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique auditory experience. Despite both switches utilizing different materials for their top housing, they both contribute to enhancing the overall sound profile of the switch, albeit in different ways.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the EMO and the Sky POM feature a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, particularly when pressing down on the switches. While the top housing may have a more significant impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches. Despite utilizing the same material for their bottom housing, the EMO and Sky POM may offer slightly different tactile experiences due to other design factors.
In essence, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a key role in determining the sound profile and overall feel of the switch. While the EMO and Sky POM may have differences in their top and bottom housing materials, they both aim to provide a unique typing experience for users. The EMO's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper sound profile, while the Sky POM's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, both switches' nylon bottom housing contributes to a fuller and rounder sound experience. Ultimately, the combination of these housing materials results in switches that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 40 grams. However, the HMX EMO has a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Dareu Sky POM's bottom out force is unknown. The HMX EMO is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Dareu Sky POM. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the HMX EMO, as it has a lower bottom out force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Dareu Sky POM, as its bottom out force remains unknown, suggesting a potentially heavier typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the HMX EMO linear switch is 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The EMO has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Sky POM. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for their quicker response times. However, some users may find the slightly longer travel distance of the Sky POM to provide a more satisfying key press with a bit more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the feel of the key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO 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
When it comes to sound, the HMX EMO switch is known for its lively and clacky sound, adding a tactile element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference, as sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of feel, the HMX EMO switch is praised for its feather-light 46g bottom-out force, delivering a bouncy and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels seamless and uniform. Both switches provide a unique feel that caters to different preferences, with the EMO focusing on a lightweight and bouncy feel while the Sky POM focuses on smoothness and fluidity.
Overall, both the HMX EMO linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The EMO excels in providing a lively and clacky typing experience with a lightweight feel, while the Sky POM stands out for its premium quality at an accessible price point, offering a smooth and buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, if you are looking for a light and bouncy typing experience with a clacky feel, the HMX EMO linear switch with a 46g bottom-out force would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a premium quality switch with a gentle actuation force and a clacky sound, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch made from POM material could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force to ensure that you find the mechanical keyboard switch that best suits your needs and typing style.
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