Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, it becomes evident that each offers unique features catering to different preferences. The Jupiter Reds stand out for their smooth and uninterrupted keystroke, medium-heavy actuation, and high-precision molds, making them ideal for users seeking a consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its POM material construction, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force at a more accessible price point. Both switches offer qualities such as creaminess and silkiness, but the Jupiter Red leans towards a neutral feel while the Sky POM offers a low-pitched buttery touch. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Spring steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Jupiter Red and the Dareu Sky POM both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Jupiter Red features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Sky POM utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials have their own distinct characteristics, they both offer a clear sound profile ideal for RGB lighting due to their translucency.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Both the Jupiter Red and the Sky POM benefit from this material in their bottom housing, providing a consistent sound profile across the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Jupiter Red and the Sky POM differ, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience for users looking for a specific sound profile.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we can see that the Jupiter Red has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Jupiter Red requires 60 grams while the Sky POM's force is unknown. This means that the Jupiter Red is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Sky POM may be the better option, especially for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red may appeal to those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, making them popular choices for gamers seeking quicker response times. Gamers who prefer a more responsive feel may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM switch. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper keystroke may find the longer travel distance of the Jupiter Red switch more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 Jupiter Red linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, providing a different auditory experience. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Jupiter Red and Sky POM switches are described as offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. The Jupiter Red is known for its polished, creamy, and silky feel, resulting in reduced friction and a sleek typing experience. Similarly, the Dareu Sky POM switch is characterized by its buttery, creamy, and silky smoothness, enhancing the overall typing sensation with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches fall into a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer a smooth, consistent typing experience with different sound profiles to cater to varying preferences. Whether you prefer a neutral sound with a medium-heavy actuation like the Jupiter Red or a low-pitched, clacky sound with exceptional smoothness like the Sky POM, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch. Additionally, the buttery, creamy, and silky feel of both switches ensures a pleasant and effortless typing sensation, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard users looking for a premium typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when looking to choose between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a medium-heavy actuation force and seek a seamless, consistent typing experience with softer backlight effects, then the Jupiter Red may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch crafted entirely from POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force at an accessible price point, then the Sky POM switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider these factors carefully to ensure you select the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.
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