TTC Ice vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the TTC Ice and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the decision can often come down to personal preference, particularly in the realm of linear switches. The TTC Ice switch stands out with its stunning transparent design, offering a smooth, responsive keypress and satisfying bottom-out sound that caters to both gamers and everyday typists alike. Its clacky and feathery characteristics make it appealing for those who enjoy a little auditory feedback but still crave a seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch presents an impressive option as well, crafted entirely from POM material. This innovative switch delivers an incredibly smooth typing experience, complemented by its low-pitched, creamy, and silky sound profile, all while remaining budget-friendly. While both switches offer unique benefits—TTC Ice for its premium feel and sound, and Dareu Sky POM for its affordability and exceptional smoothness—there's more to explore beyond these generalities. Let's dive in a bit deeper so you can determine which switch is the best fit for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Ice and the Dareu Sky POM switches, it is clear that the former utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, while the latter employs a combination of POM for the top and nylon for the bottom housing. The all-polycarbonate construction of the Ice ensures a sharper and crisper sound profile, as the rigidity of polycarbonate enhances resonance and clarity. This results in a more pronounced auditory experience, especially suited for users who appreciate a bright sound when typing. In contrast, the Sky POM's POM top housing provides a unique and deeper sound profile due to its inherent acoustic properties. While POM is known for its pleasing tonal qualities, it lacks the brightness associated with polycarbonate, instead offering a more muted and softer auditory feedback.
On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM substantially differs in its bottom housing, which is made from nylon. This choice introduces a significantly different auditory response compared to the Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's absorptive quality leads to a fuller and rounder sound profile, which contrasts sharply with the crispness of polycarbonate. As a result, when typing on the Sky POM, the user experiences a deeper impact from each keystroke due to the nylon’s ability to dampen sound, producing a distinct keystroke feel. In this regard, the differing materials between the two switches create a divergence in sound and tactile feedback, highlighting how the properties of each material affect the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the differences and similarities between the TTC Ice and the Dareu Sky POM housing materials demonstrate the nuanced influence of various plastics on sound and feel in keyboard switches. While both switches may serve the same function, their distinctive acoustic profiles cater to different preferences among users. Those drawn to the Ice will enjoy a brighter, sharper typing experience, ideal for RGB lighting scenarios, thanks to the clarity of polycarbonate. Meanwhile, the Sky POM presents an appealing option for those who favor a rounded, deeper sound profile with significant auditory warmth attributable to its nylon bottom housing. In essence, typing enthusiasts can select between these two offerings based on their sound preferences, with the understanding that the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping their experience.
Weight
The TTC Ice linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch present differing characteristics in terms of their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ice switch has a noticeable actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which provides a balanced feel that can cater to both typing and gaming preferences. In contrast, the Sky POM switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, potentially appealing to users seeking a less strenuous typing experience during extended sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Sky POM switch is unknown, leaving uncertainty about how it feels when pressed down completely. Consequently, while the TTC Ice switch is heavier overall with a defined bottom out force, the Dareu Sky POM's lighter actuation force may be preferable for those looking for a softer push, albeit with an unclear bottom out sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Ice linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, the TTC Ice features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sky POM registers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Ice switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times since it allows for quicker actuation. On the other hand, the Sky POM, with its longer 3.8 mm distance, might be favored by users who appreciate a more pronounced depth and tactile feedback when pressing down on keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for responsiveness versus a more substantial typing experience, making the Ice switch the shorter option and the Sky POM the longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 TTC Ice linear switch exhibits a clacky characteristic, producing a sharp and snappy noise with each keystroke. This crisp, bright, and percussive sound can enhance the auditory experience of typing, making it particularly engaging for gamers and typists who appreciate auditory feedback. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, which gives it a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to the Ice switch. While some may prefer the sharper accent of the Ice, others might enjoy the subdued nature of the Sky POM’s acoustics. Ultimately, the sound profile can be influenced by additional factors, such as the keyboard’s construction and the type of keycaps used with each switch.
In terms of feel, the TTC Ice switch is distinguished by its feathery lightness, requiring minimal effort for actuation. This makes it a comfortable choice for long typing sessions or intense gaming, as it reduces finger fatigue significantly. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is praised for its exceptionally smooth, buttery, and creamy typing experience, providing a seamless keystroke with a silky sensation. While both switches aim for a high-quality typing experience, the Ice emphasizes a light touch, whereas the Sky POM prioritizes the luxurious, smooth glide of each key press.
In conclusion, both the TTC Ice linear and Dareu Sky POM linear switches present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ice is ideal for those who enjoy a lively, crisp auditory feedback and a lightweight engagement for extended use. Conversely, the Sky POM excels in delivering a smooth, creamy touch that feels effortless. While both have their merits, your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize sound or the smooth feel of keystrokes, and how each fits into your overall typing or gaming experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the TTC Ice linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you value a balanced typing experience that combines both gaming and everyday use, the TTC Ice might be your ideal choice. With its medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, it provides a nice tactile response and a crisp, clacky sound, making it fantastic for a variety of tasks without causing finger fatigue. Its feathery feel allows for comfortable extended typing sessions, which is a boon if you find yourself typing for long periods. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more seamless keystroke experience, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out due to its buttery and silky characteristics. The low-pitched, clacky sound may appeal to users who enjoy a mellow typing tone. Additionally, its gentle actuation reinforces a more relaxed typing experience, perfect for casual gaming and long work hours. Ultimately, consider your preferences for sound, feel, and the type of tasks you perform most frequently to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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