Gateron Mars vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, two worthy contenders that stand out are the Gateron Mars and the Dareu Sky POM, both designed for linear enthusiasts seeking a smooth typing experience. The Gateron Mars is celebrated for its innovative construction, featuring a unique POK stem paired with a durable Nylon and POM housing, making it a fantastic choice for gamers and typists alike who desire a reliable and responsive feel. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch distinguishes itself with its all-POM composition, which offers a clacky sound profile, buttery smoothness, and a gentle actuation force that many users find appealing, all while remaining budget-friendly. Both switches excel in providing a satisfying experience, yet they cater to slightly different preferences—whether you prioritize the innovative design of the Mars or the affordable premium quality of the Sky POM. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.20 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
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Mars and Dareu Sky POM switches present an interesting juxtaposition that highlights the unique sound profiles produced by different materials. The Gateron Mars utilizes a nylon top housing, which is well-regarded for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile. This characteristic is largely attributed to nylon being a softer plastic that dampens the vibrations generated during typing, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM is fitted with a POM top housing. While POM is also known for its pleasant and unique sound, it leans towards creating a deeper and somewhat muted tone, although it may not absorb sound as effectively as nylon. The fundamental difference in the materials means that while both switches can provide a pleasing typing experience, the Gateron Mars may produce a rounder sound due to the intrinsic properties of nylon.
When examining the bottom housings, the differences continue but also highlight some parallels. The Gateron Mars features a POM bottom housing, which contributes to an equally desirable sound profile that is deeper and muted, similar to its top housing qualities. The Dareu Sky POM, however, has a nylon bottom housing. This means that the nuances of sound generated during bottoming out would be influenced more significantly by the softer nylon plastic, which enhances the fuller sound a user experiences. This interplay of materials results in the Gateron Mars potentially exhibiting a pronounced bottom-out sound, while the Sky POM may present a slightly less dynamic experience due to the resilient softness of the Nylon.
In analyzing these attributes, it becomes clear that even with differing materials for their top and bottom housings, both switches can produce a satisfying auditory experience, albeit through different acoustic properties and mechanical responses. If one were to use the Gateron Mars during typing, the weighted sound produced by its POM bottom housing could lead to a full-bodied keystroke experience while releasing the keys might create a rounder sound from the nylon top. On the other hand, using the Dareu Sky POM would yield a similar result but slightly altered, enriching the experience with the nylon bottom's traits during bottoming out while allowing the POM top to contribute to the auditory feedback upon release. Both configurations ultimately deliver a well-rounded sound profile, contingent upon the juxtaposition of the materials used.
Weight
The Gateron Mars linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch differ slightly in their actuation force, with the Mars requiring 45 grams to actuate compared to the Sky POM's lighter 40 grams. This means that typists or gamers who prefer lighter switches might gravitate towards the Sky POM for a more effortless typing experience during extended use. Both switches, however, leave the bottom-out force unspecified, making it difficult to compare them directly in that regard. Without the specific bottom-out measurements, we can't determine which switch might provide a more substantial feel when pressing all the way down. In summary, while the Mars offers a stronger actuation force leading to a heavier experience overall, the Sky POM is the lighter option, appealing to those who favor ease of use over forceful feedback.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it's clear that they offer different experiences. The Gateron Mars has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it the shorter option. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. For users who prioritize responsiveness and quicker key presses, the Mars switch may be the better choice due to its reduced distance. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial feel and depth in their keystrokes might prefer the Sky POM switch, which provides a more pronounced tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Mars and Dareu Sky POM linear switches, the Mars is known for its unique acoustics, which notably contribute to a pleasant typing experience. The Sky POM, on the other hand, delivers a low-pitched sound that is characterized by its bass-heavy tone, resulting in a mellow auditory experience. This deeper sound can provide a satisfying auditory feedback to the typist, making it enjoyable for those who appreciate a more subdued noise level. Ultimately, while the Mars will likely produce a distinct sound profile, the Sky POM's acoustic characteristics create an inviting atmosphere for users who prefer smoother, low-pitched sounds.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mars switch is recognized for its innovative design that aims to enhance overall typing experience, although specific descriptors are not provided. Meanwhile, the Dareu Sky POM switch boasts an impressive feel profile, characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky. Users can expect an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke with the Sky POM, making it a delight for extended typing sessions. The seamless transition between keystrokes implies a refined experience that minimizes finger fatigue and maximizes comfort. While the Mars might also offer a satisfying typing feel, the precise nature of its tactile experience remains unspecified.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Mars and Dareu Sky POM linear switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. With the Sky POM providing a low-pitched, mellow sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, it positions itself as an appealing choice for users who prioritize auditory feedback and tactile comfort. While the Mars has unique qualities that may differentiate it, potential users will find that both switches can deliver a satisfying experience, with similar results in comfort, though the specific nuances of the Mars still invite exploration.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Mars and the Dareu Sky POM linear switches, consider your typing preferences and the overall experience you desire. If you're looking for an innovative design with a unique POK stem and a multi-material housing that promises a smooth typing feel, the Gateron Mars could be your go-to choice, particularly if you prefer a linear switch that is optimized for heavy usage without sacrificing overall tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize sound and silky smoothness in your typing experience, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out with its buttery, creamy, and silky feel that makes every keystroke a pleasure. The low-pitched clacky sound adds a distinctive character to your typing sessions, perfect for users who enjoy a more auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches boils down to whether you lean more towards innovative construction with the Mars or the premium touch and sound profile of the Sky POM.
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