Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe 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 Gateron Lunar Probe and Dareu Sky POM stand out as popular options, both offering unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe's dual rail mechanism ensures stability and consistency during keypresses, providing an incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation with a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch, crafted entirely from POM material, offers a premium quality typing experience at an accessible price point, characterized by a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. While the Lunar Probe focuses on smoothness and consistency, the Sky POM emphasizes a clacky sound and gentle actuation force. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Lunar Probe and the Dareu Sky POM both feature polycarbonate top housings, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material provides a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more distinct typing experience. While the Lunar Probe utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, the Sky POM presents a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both materials offer a unique and pleasing typing experience, catering to different preferences in auditory feedback.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Lunar Probe and the Sky POM feature nylon, a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to harder plastics. While the bottom housing may have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing still plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound quality when pressing and releasing keys. Therefore, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from both switches, thanks to the qualities nylon brings to the table.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Dareu Sky POM ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. In contrast, the Sky POM's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, catering to individuals who enjoy a softer typing sound. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings that provide a deeper and fuller sound, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the chosen switch. Whether one opts for the Lunar Probe or the Sky POM, they can expect high-quality housing materials that contribute to a premium typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch is slightly heavier than the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, with 45 grams compared to 40 grams. The bottom out force of the Lunar Probe is also heavier at 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. Both switches are relatively light in terms of actuation force, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the Lunar Probe offers a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and the desired weight of the key press.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quick response times. The Lunar Probe offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it potentially more responsive for fast-paced gaming. On the other hand, the Sky POM provides a bit more depth in its travel, which some users may prefer for a more pronounced tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for its subtle sound signature, providing a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a low-pitched and clacky sound, which can add a bit more audial feedback to your typing. Both switches have their own unique sound characteristics, with the Lunar Probe being more understated and the Sky POM offering a bit more tactile feedback in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is praised for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. The Dareu Sky POM switch, crafted entirely from POM material, provides a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and a gentle actuation force. Both switches offer a premium typing experience, with the Lunar Probe focusing on smoothness and stability, while the Sky POM emphasizes a buttery and fluid keystroke sensation.
Overall, both the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe excels in providing a smooth and stable typing experience with a subtle sound signature, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. On the other hand, the Sky POM offers a clacky sound profile along with a buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile and feedback-rich typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches provide excellent quality and performance in their own right.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider the bottom out force and unique features of each. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and enjoy stable and consistent keypresses with a smooth linear sensation, the Lunar Probe may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch made entirely from POM material that offers a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, the Sky POM could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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