Outemu Lime (V3) vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lime (V3) 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 Outemu Lime and Dareu Sky POM offer distinct qualities worth considering. The Lime switch is admired for its lightweight design, approachable tactility, and silent operation, making it an ideal choice for tactile enthusiasts seeking a feathery typing experience with a touch of tactility. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its premium quality crafted from POM material, delivering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force at an affordable price point. While the Lime switch is praised for its muted and polished feel, the Sky POM switch is celebrated for its buttery, low-pitched, and creamy characteristics. 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
35g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lime and the Dareu Sky POM, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is characteristic of switches with nylon top housings. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM features a POM top housing, which produces a unique and pleasing sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to nylon.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Outemu Lime and the Dareu Sky POM utilize nylon for this component as well. Again, the use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile that is softer and more absorbent of sound compared to harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound for both switches. Given that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of sound and feel when it comes to bottoming out the keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Lime and the Dareu Sky POM differ, the impact of each housing material is noticeable in different aspects of typing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction highlights the importance of both top and bottom housing materials in creating a unique typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Lime tactile switch with the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force of the Lime is lighter at 35 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. This means that the Lime requires less force to trigger a keystroke, making it potentially more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lime is heavier at 45 grams compared to the Sky POM's unknown bottom out force. This indicates that the Lime switch may provide a more substantial typing feel when fully pressed. Ultimately, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches caters to individuals with varying preferences in terms of typing dynamics and key press feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Dareu Sky POM linear switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Lime switch offers a slightly shorter key press compared to the Sky POM switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Outemu Lime switch for its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press experience may opt for the Dareu Sky POM switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a neutral and muted typing experience, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users who prefer a quieter keyboard. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is subjective and can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lime switch offers a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. With its feather-light actuation force, it reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing experience suitable for extended use. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. Both switches offer a refined and polished typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and seamless typing experience for users.
Overall, the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Lime switch provides a muted sound profile and a feathery typing experience, the Sky POM switch offers a low-pitched sound and a buttery typing sensation. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both switches provide high-quality performance at their respective price points. Therefore, whether you choose the Lime or Sky POM switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Lime tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound. If you prefer a light, tactile typing experience with a gentle actuation force and a muted sound profile, the Lime switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smooth and clacky typing experience with a low-pitched sound and a buttery feel, the Sky POM switches would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience and sound profile you prefer for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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