Durock Mamba vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Durock Mamba and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for a mechanical keyboard switch, the Durock Mamba and Dareu Sky POM are both excellent options to consider. The Durock Mamba is a linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience with a gliding sensation and a rich auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM, also a linear switch, is crafted from premium POM material, providing a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness at an accessible price point. While the Mamba is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished', the Sky POM is characterized by 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky' attributes. Each switch has its own unique qualities 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Extended long spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Dareu Sky POM both offer unique sound profiles, with the Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing providing a brighter sound compared to the Sky POM's POM top housing which offers a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches aim to provide a pleasing sound experience, albeit with different characteristics. If one enjoys a brighter sound profile, the Mamba may be the preferred choice, while those seeking a deeper and more muted sound may lean towards the Sky POM.
In terms of the bottom housing material, the Mamba and Sky POM differ once again with the Mamba utilizing POM for its bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and muted sound profile, similar to the Sky POM's POM top housing. On the other hand, the Sky POM features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a fuller and rounder sound. Despite the difference in materials, both switches aim to provide a unique sound experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Mamba and the Dareu Sky POM play a significant role in shaping the sound profile and feel of each switch. While they may differ in material composition, both switches aim to provide a pleasing and unique sound experience for users. Whether one prefers a brighter sound with the Mamba's blend of materials or a deeper and more muted sound with the Sky POM's POM housing, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The actuation force of the Durock Mamba linear switch is not specified, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has an actuation force of 40 grams. The bottom out force of the Mamba is 60 grams, which is a medium weight, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. In terms of weight, the Mamba is heavier at the bottom out stage, while the Sky POM is lighter in terms of actuation force. Individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dareu Sky POM for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Durock Mamba for its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Durock Mamba linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Dareu Sky POM has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Durock Mamba. While the 0.3 mm difference may seem negligible, it can have an impact on the overall typing experience. Those who prefer a shorter travel distance may opt for the Durock Mamba for a quicker response time, ideal for gaming. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Dareu Sky POM may appeal to individuals who prefer a deeper keystroke for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 Durock Mamba linear switch offers a neutral and thocky typing experience, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a deep, rich sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch produces a low-pitched sound, characterized by a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Mamba being more versatile in its sound profile while the Sky POM provides a distinct low-pitched tone.
Moving on to feel, the Durock Mamba switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and refined finish that results in smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction. While the Mamba switch falls in the safe, middle-ground zone in terms of typing experience, the Sky POM delivers a luxurious and effortless typing sensation, enhancing overall smoothness and minimizing resistance.
In conclusion, the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities. The Mamba provides a versatile and polished typing sound and experience, while the Sky POM offers a luxurious and smooth typing sensation with a unique low-pitched sound profile. Whether you prefer a more neutral and thocky sound or a buttery and creamy feel, both switches cater to different preferences and deliver exceptional typing experiences. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Mamba linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your personal preferences for typing experience. If you appreciate a moderate actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Mamba may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a gentle actuation force and a low-pitched, clacky sound, the Sky POM may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so it's important to consider what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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