Neo Lavender HE vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Neo Lavender HE and the Dareu Sky POM each offer unique characteristics that can significantly influence your typing experience. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is renowned for its clean, low sound profile and remarkable compatibility with Wooting keyboards, making it an enticing option for those seeking a quiet and precise keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its entirely POM construction, delivering a clacky sound that many enthusiasts find satisfying. With a reputation for exceptional smoothness and a gentle actuation force, the Sky POM is perfect for gamers and typists alike who appreciate a more tactile experience. While the Lavender HE appeals to those who prioritize quiet operation and precision, the Sky POM captures attention with its engaging auditory feedback and buttery feel. 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Neo Lavender HE and the Dareu Sky POM switches, it's evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, while their top housings differ, with the Lavender HE featuring nylon and the Sky POM using POM. Nylon is renowned for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials. This characteristic greatly influences the sound produced when keys are pressed, contributing to a muted and somewhat rounded auditory experience. On the other hand, the Sky POM’s top housing, made from POM, grants a unique flavor to the sound profile that remains on the deeper side yet can be distinctly different due to the material's acoustic properties.
The distinction between the top housings leads to interesting contrasts in the overall sound experience that users can expect from each switch. While both the Lavender HE and the Sky POM feature nylon bottom housings that will deliver a similar sound profile — one that is deeper and more muted due to the material's inherent qualities — the contrasting top housings will diverge in how the auditory experience is perceived. The nylon top housing of the Lavender HE will promote a somewhat rounder sound profile when releasing keys. Conversely, the POM top housing of the Sky POM will impart a unique sound signature that blends the qualities of POM with the foundational depth provided by the nylon bottom housing.
From a tactile perspective, while the bottom housing's material remains consistent between the two switches, the impact of each top housing on the feel and sound upon key release varies. The nylon of the Lavender HE enhances the feel of the bottoming-out process while contributing to how the sound reverberates during this action. In contrast, the Sky POM’s POM material offers a different tactile sensation that might intensify the key’s release characteristics. In scenarios where switches have the same bottom housing material, such as in both cases here, keyboard enthusiasts can anticipate comparable bottom-out feedback and sound, but the top housing's influence ensures that the overall typing experience remains distinct and nuanced between the two models.
Weight
When comparing the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, both exhibit the same actuation force of 40 grams, indicating a similar ease in triggering a keystroke. This lightweight design makes them suitable for extended typing sessions, catering to users who prefer a lighter touch for comfort during long work hours or gaming marathons. However, the bottom out force reveals a difference between the two; the Lavender HE has a defined bottom out force of 50 grams, which provides a more substantial feel upon reaching the key's limit. Conversely, the bottom out force for the Sky POM is unknown, leaving a gap in comparison. As a result, while both switches share an actuation force and are on the lighter side, the Lavender HE's defined bottom out force could provide a more satisfying tactile response for those who enjoy that feedback, whereas the performance of the Sky POM remains uncertain in this regard.
Travel distance
Both the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience an identical distance of movement from the top to the bottom. Therefore, users can expect similar tactile feedback and performance from either switch, providing a consistent typing experience regardless of the choice between the two.
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 Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 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
In terms of sound, the Neo Lavender HE switch is noted for its clean, low sound profile, distinguishing it from many other magnetic switches. This low sound can provide a subtle and refined auditory experience, particularly appealing to users who prefer a less intrusive typing noise. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch produces a clacky sound, characterized by a low-pitched tone that has a more pronounced bass quality. This difference in sound character means that while both switches can be relatively low-profile, the Lavender HE offers a more muted auditory experience, whereas the Sky POM is designed to deliver a richer and more resonant sound, making it easier to notice the satisfying audio feedback during typing.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Lavender HE offers a clean typing experience, providing a solid tactile response that users often appreciate for its consistency and reliability. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch provides a distinctly different feel, described as buttery, creamy, and silky. Users can expect a fluid keystroke experience that makes typing feel seamless and effortless. The luxurious sensations associated with the Sky POM can be attributed to its high-quality POM material, which can enhance the overall typing experience, making it feel smoother and more enjoyable. This contrast means that those who prefer a simpler, clean feel may lean towards the Lavender HE, while those seeking a more luxurious experience will likely favor the Sky POM.
Overall, while the Neo Lavender HE and Dareu Sky POM switches serve different preferences in terms of sound and feel, both provide quality typing experiences. The Lavender HE excels in delivering a clean, unobtrusive auditory experience, paired with a solid feel that many typists appreciate. Conversely, the Sky POM switches stand out with their clacky sound and buttery smoothness, ideal for users who relish a more engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference regarding the sound profile and tactile experience, as both are designed to cater to different user needs effectively.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, your personal preferences and usage scenarios play a crucial role. If you prioritize a light typing experience with a clean, low sound, the Lavender HE option is an excellent choice, especially for gaming or prolonged typing sessions where minimal fatigue is desired. Its compatibility with Wooting keyboards makes it an attractive option for enthusiasts in that ecosystem. Conversely, if you prefer a clacky sound combined with buttery smoothness for a more satisfying typing sensation, the Sky POM would be the way to go. The creamy and silky feel of these switches is ideal for those who enjoy a premium typing experience without breaking the bank. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what aspects of keystroke feel and sound resonate with you more, whether it's the lightness and low noise of the Lavender HE or the tactile satisfaction and character of the Sky POM.
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