KTT Lightning vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Lightning and Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches but offer different qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lightning is known for its speed and precision, making it ideal for competitive gamers who rely on quick key presses. On the other hand, the Sky POM stands out for its premium quality construction at an affordable price, providing a smooth typing experience with a satisfying clacky sound. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Lightning's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Dareu Sky POM's POM top housing, which offers a deeper and more muted sound. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Lightning also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Sky POM creates a unique sound profile that may be preferred by those looking for a deeper tone in their typing experience.
Both the Lightning and the Sky POM feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for producing a fuller and deeper sound profile. This commonality ensures that users of both switches can experience a similar typing feel when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder typing experience. This shared characteristic between the two switches highlights the importance of the bottom housing material in shaping the overall sound profile of a switch.
While the KTT Lightning and the Dareu Sky POM may differ in their top housing materials, they both offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of materials used. The split between the top and bottom housing materials in each switch allows users to feel the impact of both materials when typing, with the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper tone of POM, both switches provide a customizable typing experience based on your sound preferences.
Weight
The KTT Lightning linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch with an actuation force of 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lightning requires 50 grams while the Sky POM's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Lightning switch is lighter overall. Weight is a significant factor to consider as it affects typing comfort and endurance. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Lightning switch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier actuation force of the Sky POM switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is shorter at 3 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of responsiveness, the Lightning switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Sky POM switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of modern travel distances, with the Lightning offering a slightly shallower press compared to the Sky POM. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 KTT Lightning switch offers a clacky and high-pitched typing experience, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch emits a low-pitched sound, delivering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches have distinct sound profiles, with the Lightning being more sharp and percussive while the Sky POM offers a smoother and gentler typing sound depending on other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch provides a subtle and polished typing experience, featuring a gentle resistance and a smooth finish for a sleek typing sensation. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke and a seamless, effortless typing sensation. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort in typing, with the Lightning being more refined and polished while the Sky POM focuses on a buttery and creamy feel.
Overall, both the KTT Lightning and Dareu Sky POM switches offer unique qualities in sound and feel. While the Lightning switch is better suited for quick typing and competitive gaming with its clacky sound and subtle feel, the Sky POM switch provides a premium typing experience at a more accessible price point with its smooth and buttery feel. Depending on personal preference and typing style, users can expect similar results in terms of performance and comfort from both switches, with the choice between them coming down to individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prioritize a light bottom out force and a slick, clacky sound profile perfect for gaming and quick keystrokes, the Lightning switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with unknown bottom out force, a clacky sound profile characterized by smoothness and a gentle actuation force, the Sky POM switch might be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual preferences and needs when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches.
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