Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Dareu Sky POM both stand out for their unique features. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, is praised for its budget-friendly nature and smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force and a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects, this switch strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is crafted entirely from premium POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force at an accessible price point. While the G Pro Red provides a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience, the Sky POM is known for its low-pitched and buttery feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the Dareu Sky POM, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a more crisp typing experience. However, while both switches share this feature, the Sky POM's POM top housing offers a unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted in comparison. This difference in sound profile could appeal to users who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches feature a nylon housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer material properties. This results in a more rounded and dull sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. This similarity in housing material for the bottom of the switches ensures that users will experience a consistent typing feel and sound when pressing down on the keys. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches emphasizes a focus on providing a satisfying typing experience with a deeper sound profile.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it becomes apparent that the qualities of the top and bottom housings play a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of each key press. While both switches may have similar housing materials for their bottom housing, the differences in the top housing material can significantly alter the sound profile of the switches. Therefore, users looking for a sharper and crisper sound may prefer the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red with its polycarbonate top housing, while those seeking a deeper and more muted sound may gravitate towards the Dareu Sky POM with its POM top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
Comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, the actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Red is slightly heavier at 45 grams compared to the 40 grams of the Sky POM. However, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Red is also heavier at 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. Both switches provide a light actuation force, making them ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the heavier bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Red may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them ideal for fast-paced activities like gaming. Gamers who prioritize quick response times may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Red with its 4 mm travel distance, while those who enjoy a slightly deeper key press may lean towards the Dareu Sky POM with its 3.8 mm travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a compact and efficient typing experience, ensuring similar results in terms of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch has a neutral profile, offering a moderate sound that is suitable for various environments and user preferences. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a low-pitched sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that may appeal to users looking for a quieter typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycap choices.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation with exceptional smoothness and minimal resistance. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch have their unique sound and feel characteristics, they both offer a premium typing experience at a budget-friendly price point. Whether you prefer a neutral sound profile or a low-pitched tone, and whether you enjoy a creamy, buttery, or silky typing feel, both switches deliver exceptional performance. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red if you prefer a light bottom-out force of 50 grams, a neutral sound profile, and a creamy typing feel that strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. On the other hand, choose the Dareu Sky POM if you enjoy a switch crafted entirely from POM material with a gentle actuation force, a low-pitched clacky sound, and a buttery or silky smooth typing experience that offers a seamless and uniform sensation. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and actuation force to enhance your typing experience to your liking.
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