Durock Light Tactile vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Sky POM. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, providing a soft and smooth typing experience that is a refreshing change from sharper tactile switches. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch from Dareu is notable for its premium quality construction using POM material, offering a combination of a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. While the Light Tactile switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Sky POM switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different preferences and typing styles. 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
52g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Light Tactile and Sky POM switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Sky POM's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile for typing on both switches. While the top housings provide distinct sound characteristics, the bottom housings contribute to a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and roundness.
In terms of aesthetics, the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing offers a translucent look that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while the Sky POM's POM top housing provides a more solid and opaque appearance. This difference in visual appeal may influence the choice of switch for users looking to customize their keyboard with lighting effects. However, both switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housing, which is a classic material known for its sound-absorbing properties. This commonality ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound depth and resonance.
Overall, the choice between the Light Tactile and Sky POM switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound, as well as the option for RGB lighting customization. In contrast, the Sky POM's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, with a solid appearance. Both switches use nylon in their bottom housing, creating a similar typing experience in terms of sound depth and fullness. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and visual appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is clear that the Light Tactile is the heavier option. The Light Tactile has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Sky POM has an actuation force of 40 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The Light Tactile provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Sky POM offers a lighter typing feel. Both switches have their advantages, as the Light Tactile is suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Sky POM is ideal for those who like a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we see that the Light Tactile has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sky POM has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While the 0.2mm may not seem like a significant difference, it can have an impact on the typing experience. The Light Tactile offers a slightly deeper press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key feel. On the other hand, the Sky POM provides a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - whether you prioritize a deeper key press or a faster response time. Both switches offer a different experience, allowing users to customize their typing experience to their liking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
The Durock Light Tactile switch offers a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch boasts premium quality made entirely of POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. When it comes to sound, the Light Tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile suitable for most users, while the Sky POM switch offers a low-pitched tone with a bass-heavy and mellow sound. The feel of the Light Tactile switch is mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences. Whether you choose the Light Tactile or the Sky POM switch, you can expect a delightful typing experience with distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Durock Light Tactile and Dareu Sky POM switches, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you prefer a gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound with exceptional smoothness and a low actuation force, the Dareu Sky POM switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs for a satisfying typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
