Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Ink Yellow is ideal for those seeking a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, thanks to its shorter travel and smooth clackiness. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM stands out for its premium quality crafted entirely from POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force at a more accessible price point. While the Ink Yellow is categorized as 'Neutral, Clacky, Mild, Polished', the Sky POM is labeled as 'Buttery, Low-pitched, Creamy, Silky'. 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
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Yellow and Dareu Sky POM both have unique top housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Ink Yellow uses Gateron's proprietary INK blend, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Sky POM's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer a satisfying typing experience, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the two switches differ significantly. The Gateron Ink Yellow features a bottom housing made of the same proprietary INK blend as the top, resulting in a consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke. In comparison, the Dareu Sky POM uses a nylon bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can affect the overall typing experience and sound produced by the switches.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Ink Yellow and Dareu Sky POM ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience but cater to different tastes in terms of sound. Whether you prefer the higher-pitched clacky sound of the Ink Yellow or the deeper, more muted sound of the Sky POM, each switch has its own unique qualities that make it stand out. Regardless of which switch you choose, the housing materials play a significant role in determining the overall typing experience and sound produced by the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Ink Yellow is heavier than the Sky POM. The Gateron Ink Yellow has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter key press, the Sky POM would be the better option as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. By considering both the actuation force and bottom out force, users can choose the switch that aligns with their preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the difference of 0.3 mm between the two switches may be noticeable to some users. Those who prefer a snappier and more responsive feel may lean towards the Ink Yellow, while those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may opt for the Sky POM. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear feel with minimal travel distance, providing a similar typing experience in terms of overall feel despite the slight variation in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 Yellow linear switch is known for its neutral profile, providing a moderate sound that is suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, which gives a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches have unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Ink Yellow being more versatile and the Sky POM offering a more specific auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance. While the Ink Yellow switch falls into a middle-ground zone in terms of feel, the Sky POM switch excels in providing a luxurious and effortless typing sensation, making it a desirable option for those who prioritize comfort and smoothness.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Yellow provides a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience, catering to a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Sky POM offers a low-pitched sound and a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, ensuring a premium typing experience at an accessible price point. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Ink Yellow offering versatility and the Sky POM delivering luxury. Ultimately, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of quality and performance, with the choice between them depending on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound. If you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral to clacky sound profile, along with a mild and polished feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an unknown bottom out force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a buttery, creamy, or silky feel, the Dareu Sky POM switch might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics that align with your typing style and desired tactile feedback.
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