KTT Matcha vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Matcha and Dareu Sky POM offer distinct experiences for users. The KTT Matcha is a tactile switch that stands out for its comfortable and snappy tactility, as well as its clean bottom-out sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM is a linear switch made entirely from POM material, known for its clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. While the Matcha provides a more tactile typing experience, the Sky POM offers a smooth and consistent feel. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style; 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Dareu Sky POM differ significantly in terms of the sound profile they produce. The Matcha's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the Sky POM's POM top housing produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles may appeal to different preferences in typing experiences. However, both materials offer unique qualities in terms of sound, making them both suitable choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In addition to the top housing, the bottom housing materials of the Matcha and the Sky POM also contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing is described as creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound, similar to its effect on the top housing. On the other hand, the Sky POM's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in sound produced by the bottom housing materials further emphasizes the distinct characteristics of each switch, catering to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
While the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and Dareu Sky POM offer varying sound profiles, they both highlight the importance of choosing the right housing material for a satisfying typing experience. The difference in sound produced by the polycarbonate and POM materials in the top housing, as well as the impact of polycarbonate and nylon in the bottom housing, showcase the versatility of materials in creating unique typing experiences. Whether one prefers a sharper and crisper sound profile or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, which also has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the Matcha has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Matcha may be the better option due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Sky POM may be the preferred choice. Both switches offer different weights that cater to different preferences, with the Matcha being lighter overall in terms of force requirements compared to the Sky POM. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Matcha offering a slightly deeper press compared to the Sky POM. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Matcha. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 it comes to sound, the KTT Matcha switch offers a crisp and bright clacky sound, creating a percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch provides a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone, offering a more subtle auditory feedback during typing sessions. Both switches will produce satisfying sounds depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha switch is known for its stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle tactile feedback, providing a responsive and comfortable typing experience with a medium level of tactility. Conversely, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that minimizes resistance and enhances the overall smoothness of typing. Both switches provide distinct tactile sensations, catering to different preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Overall, the KTT Matcha and Dareu Sky POM switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Matcha switch provides a more pronounced tactile feel with a crisp clacky sound, the Sky POM switch excels in providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a mellow low-pitched sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for the tactile feedback and sound profile desired in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom out force and a comfortable, snappy tactility, then the KTT Matcha switch would be a great choice for you. You can enjoy a clean bottom-out sound and a responsive typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a smooth and buttery typing experience, along with a low-pitched sound, then the Dareu Sky POM switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your preferences in terms of feel and sound when choosing between these two switches to ensure you get the best typing experience for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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