Gateron Ink Box Pink vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Box Pink 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 Ink Box Pink and the Dareu Sky POM are two popular options to consider. The Ink Box Pink is praised for its smooth and light typing feel, along with a higher-pitched clack that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM offers a unique experience with its POM material construction, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force at a budget-friendly price point. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and qualities that appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Dareu Sky POM, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles. The Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a high-pitched and clacky sound, while the Sky POM's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the typing experience for users, depending on their preference for a sharper or softer sound profile.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Box Pink's proprietary INK blend offers a similar high-pitched and clacky sound profile as its top housing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to the absorbing qualities of nylon material. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall typing experience by influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, adding another layer of customization for users to consider.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Gateron Ink Box Pink and the Dareu Sky POM provide users with distinct typing experiences. While the Ink Box Pink offers a consistent high-pitched sound profile with its proprietary INK blend for both top and bottom housings, the Sky POM provides a contrast with a deeper and more muted sound from its POM top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches have their unique strengths and appeal to different preferences, allowing users to choose the housing material that best suits their typing style and sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Box Pink has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Ink Box Pink is 60 grams, while the Sky POM's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Ink Box Pink requires more force both to initiate a keystroke and to press the keys all the way down compared to the Sky POM. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky POM may be the better option, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Ink Box Pink. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The difference in travel distance between them may not be significant to most users, but those who are sensitive to minute variations in keypress feedback may notice a slight distinction. Typically, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer a smooth linear travel with no tactile bump, so regardless of which one you choose, you can expect a similar level of performance in terms of keypress activation.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Box Pink has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Pink for $7.65.
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 Ink Box Pink linear switch offers a higher-pitched and sharp clacky sound, providing a crisp and bright auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch features a low-pitched tone, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. Ultimately, the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, users can expect the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch to provide a silky and polished typing experience, characterized by exceptionally smooth key presses and minimized resistance when engaging with the keys. Conversely, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a buttery and creamy typing sensation, ensuring a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. Both switches prioritize smooth and refined key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel for the user.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Box Pink and Dareu Sky POM linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles, they both aim to provide a premium typing experience. If you prefer a higher-pitched clacky sound with a silky and polished typing feel, the Ink Box Pink switch may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a low-pitched tone with a buttery and creamy typing sensation, the Dareu Sky POM switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Box Pink linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a lighter typing feel with a higher-pitched and clacky sound, the Ink Box Pink may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched clacky sound, the Sky POM switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying for your typing style.
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