Zuoce Lavender vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender and Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, two linear switches with unique characteristics stand out. The Lavender switch is praised for its exceptional smoothness due to its proprietary Ly blend, providing a satisfyingly crisp and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch is crafted entirely from POM material, offering premium quality at a budget-friendly price point with its clacky sound, smoothness, and gentle actuation force. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Lavender being easy-to-press and clacky, while the Sky POM is characterized as buttery, low-pitched, creamy, and 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
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and Dareu Sky POM switches both feature top housings made of POM material, which is known to create a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper and relatively muted profile. This means that users can expect a similar sound experience regardless of whether they are using the Lavender or Sky POM switches. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a significant difference between the two switches. The Lavender features a bottom housing also made of POM, while the Sky POM utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This contrast in bottom housing material can result in a different typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of typing feel, the Zuoce Lavender's bottom housing made of POM material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM's nylon bottom housing will provide a different tactile experience, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the top housing of both switches is made of POM material, the differences in the bottom housing material will ultimately influence the overall typing experience. Users who prefer a softer and rounder sound may lean towards the Dareu Sky POM, while those looking for a more muted and deeper sound profile may opt for the Zuoce Lavender.
Ultimately, the choice between the Zuoce Lavender and Dareu Sky POM switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel. Both switches offer a pleasing and unique sound experience with their POM top housings, but the difference in bottom housing material can provide users with distinct typing experiences. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with nylon or a more muted sound with POM, both switches have their own strengths that cater to different preferences. It is essential to consider these differences when selecting a switch for your keyboard to ensure that you achieve the sound and typing feel that best suits your needs.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Lavender switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Lavender is also higher at 53 grams, whereas the force for the Sky POM is unknown. This difference suggests that the Lavender switch may provide a slightly firmer typing experience overall. When considering weight preferences, it is important to note that the Lavender switch falls into the medium-light category, making it suitable for longer typing sessions, while the Sky POM's weight is unknown, making it difficult to determine its suitability for extended use. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Sky POM, while those seeking a slightly heavier typing experience may opt for the Lavender.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Lavender has a shorter travel distance compared to the Sky POM. The Lavender's 3.4 mm travel distance may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers, while the Sky POM's 3.8 mm travel distance may provide a more substantial and deliberate typing experience. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prefer a more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing or gaming style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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
In terms of sound, the Zuoce Lavender switch offers a distinctive clacky sound, giving each keystroke a satisfying crisp and bright tone. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch produces a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, offering a different auditory experience. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation and offering a gentle typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that allows for seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches offer distinct tactile feelings that cater to different preferences in typing feedback and comfort.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender and Dareu Sky POM switches each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lavender switch excels in providing a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Sky POM switch offers a low-pitched sound and a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that newcomers can achieve their desired typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a crisp and clacky sound signature, the Zuoce Lavender switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch crafted from premium POM material with a low-pitched sound profile and a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, the Dareu Sky POM switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how these factors align with your personal typing preferences and comfort levels.
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