Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Dareu Sky POM stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron boasts a substantial 60g actuation force and 70g bottom-out force, providing a balanced medium-heavy typing experience. Its medium-high pitch auditory feedback and frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects make it a popular choice for those seeking a premium feel at an affordable price point. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a unique POM material construction, delivering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', the Sky POM appeals to users looking for a quieter yet smooth 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
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Dareu Sky POM both have unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Sky POM utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. While both offer satisfying typing experiences, the G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal to those who prefer a sharper sound, while the Sky POM is more suited for those looking for a deeper, more subdued typing sound.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Sky POM differ once again. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a pleasing and unique deep sound profile. This contrasts with the Sky POM's nylon bottom housing, which creates a softer and fuller sound due to its absorbent nature. While both bottom housings offer a distinct typing experience, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black may provide a slightly deeper sound compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Dareu Sky POM ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal to those seeking a sharper, clackier sound with its INK blend top housing, the Sky POM offers a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. Additionally, the bottom housing materials of each switch also contribute to the overall typing experience, with the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black providing a deeper sound compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Sky POM has a lower actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Sky POM offers a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Sky POM provides a slightly shallower key press. Gamers might prefer the G Pro 3.0 Black for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a bit more depth in their key presses may lean towards the Sky POM. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Black being slightly longer and the Sky POM being slightly shorter in terms of travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a clacky and medium-high pitched sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch produces a low-pitched tone, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow sound. Depending on personal preference, individuals may gravitate towards the sharper sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the smoother, deeper sound of the Sky POM.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Dareu Sky POM switches are praised for their smooth and buttery typing experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a medium-heavy feel with a subtle resistance, providing a balanced and creamy sensation when typing. Similarly, the Sky POM switch is known for its gentle actuation force and exceptional smoothness, resulting in a buttery and silky typing experience. Users can expect a seamless and effortless keystroke feel with both switches, making them suitable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Dareu Sky POM switches may differ slightly in sound and feel qualities, they both excel in providing a premium typing experience at reasonable price points. Whether you prefer the clacky and medium-high pitch of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the low-pitched and smoother sound of the Sky POM, both switches offer reliable performance and satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a more substantive feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, clackier sound with a gentler actuation force, the Sky POM switch crafted from POM material could be more appealing. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize the smoothness and sound profile of the switches or the tactile feedback and weight of the keystrokes.
Mentioned in this article
