TTC Gold Red vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique advantages for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Gold Red switch is praised for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium resistance, providing a subtle yet satisfying sound profile. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch stands out for its premium quality crafted from POM material, offering a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness with a gentle actuation force. While the Gold Red switch may appeal to those looking for a polished and neutral typing experience, the Sky POM switch is ideal for users seeking a creamy and buttery feel at a more accessible price point. 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
43g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red and Dareu Sky POM both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. However, while the Gold Red's polycarbonate top housing is known for its clear and resonant sound due to its stiffness, the Sky POM's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrast in sound profiles showcases the different characteristics of each material, catering to different preferences when it comes to typing experience. Despite the difference in sound, both top housings are beneficial for RGB lighting due to their translucency.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Gold Red and Sky POM utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the typing experience. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housing on both the Gold Red and Sky POM offers a consistent and satisfying sound profile that emphasizes the tactile feedback of each keystroke.
When the top and bottom housings are different, such as in the case of the Gold Red and Sky POM, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. This allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience, with the materials used in their housing contributing to their distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red linear switch is lighter than the Dareu Sky POM linear switch in terms of actuation force, with 43 grams compared to 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Red requires 50 grams while the force required for the Sky POM is unknown. The Gold Red provides a lighter typing experience overall compared to the Sky POM. For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods, the Gold Red may be the preferred choice. However, for individuals who appreciate a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, the actuation force of the Sky POM may be more suitable, as the bottom out force is unknown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Red being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Sky POM switch for its shorter travel distance, leading to faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Gold Red switch with its marginally longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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 TTC Gold Red linear switch is characterized by a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and rich tone that is pleasing to the ears. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch produces a low-pitched sound that adds a bass-heavy and mellow quality to your typing experience. Both switches provide a neutral or subtle sound profile, although the Gold Red switch may offer a slightly more pronounced sound due to its snappy nature. Ultimately, the sound of these switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red switch is known for its mild, silky, subtle, and polished characteristics, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing comfort. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is praised for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation that allows your fingers to glide across the keys with ease. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort in typing, making them ideal choices for prolonged use.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer exceptional qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Gold Red switch may provide a slightly snappier sound compared to the clacky sound of the Sky POM switch, both switches excel in delivering smooth and comfortable typing experiences. Whether you prefer a deeper thocky sound or a mellow low-pitched tone, both switches are crafted to enhance your typing satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring a personalized typing experience on your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Red linear switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light-medium level of resistance with a buttery smooth typing experience and a snappy sound profile, the Gold Red may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a gentle actuation force, exceptional smoothness, and a clacky sound profile at an accessible price point, the Sky POM could be the perfect fit. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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