Gateron Ink Red vs. Dareu Sky POM

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron Ink Red and the Dareu Sky POM, both linear switches. The Gateron Ink Red is ideal for those with a lighter typing style, thanks to its lower actuation force. Known for its smoothness and crispy, clacky sound profile, the Ink Reds offer an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM stands out for its premium quality crafted from POM material, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force at an accessible price point. The Sky POM is favored for its buttery feel and low-pitched, creamy sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Ink Red Linear

Dareu Sky POM Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

$7.78

$4.98 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Red and Dareu Sky POM switches offer distinct audio experiences. The Ink Red's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, resulting in a clacky typing experience. In contrast, the Sky POM's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique auditory feedback, the INK blend top housing leans towards a sharper tone compared to the POM top housing's softer, more rounded sound.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the differences between the Gateron Ink Red and Dareu Sky POM become more pronounced. The INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red switch contributes to its pointed and higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing the overall clackiness of the typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM switch elicits a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more mellow typing sound. The choice between these two switches ultimately comes down to whether you prefer a sharper, clacky sound or a softer, fuller sound when typing.

Overall, the Gateron Ink Red and Dareu Sky POM switches offer contrasting housing materials that cater to different preferences. While the INK blend top housing of the Ink Red switch provides a more pointed and high-pitched sound, the POM top housing of the Sky POM switch offers a deeper and more muted typing experience. Similarly, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Red switch leans towards a sharper sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM switch produces a fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a clacky, sharper sound or a softer, more rounded sound while typing.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is clear that the Ink Red is the heavier option of the two. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. On the other hand, the Sky POM is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams. The bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares in terms of weight. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky POM may be the more suitable choice, while the Ink Red provides a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions and heavier switches favored for those seeking a more tactile response.

Travel distance

The Gateron Ink 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. This makes the Ink Red the longer of the two switches. The difference in travel distance may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Ink Red. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the individual user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is known for its neutral and chirpy sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. When it comes to feel, the Ink Red switch is described as silky, mild, and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Sky POM switch, on the other hand, is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Overall, both switches excel in providing smooth and satisfying typing experiences, with the Ink Red leaning towards a crispy and clacky sound profile while the Sky POM offers a more mellow tone. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer premium quality and a pleasant typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a switch with a medium actuation force and a crispy sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a premium quality switch at an accessible price point with a gentle actuation force and a clacky sound, the Dareu Sky POM could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what attributes are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Ink Red Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Sky POM Linear

$7.78

$4.98 per 10

Learn more