Durock Medium Tactile vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, there are a plethora of switch options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular switches that stand out are the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Sky POM. The Durock Medium Tactile is praised for its pronounced yet balanced tactility, providing a satisfying typing sensation with a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM stands out for its premium quality construction from POM material, offering a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness with a gentle actuation force. While the Medium Tactile provides a tactile typing experience, the Sky POM offers a linear typing experience. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Sky POM, it is clear that both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their top housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Medium Tactile provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Sky POM creates a deeper and more muted sound, catering to individuals who prefer a quieter typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Medium Tactile and the Sky POM feature a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics, making typing on these switches a more satisfying experience. The nylon bottom housing in both switches absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This results in a more consistent sound profile across the keys, giving typists a uniform typing experience regardless of the key pressed.
In conclusion, while the top housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the Dareu Sky POM offer different sound profiles, their shared nylon bottom housing provides a consistent and satisfying typing experience for users. Whether you prefer the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, muted sound of POM, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Medium Tactile is heavier in terms of bottom out force at 65 grams, while the Sky POM has a lighter actuation force at 40 grams. The actuation force for the Medium Tactile is not specified, whereas the bottom out force for the Sky POM is unavailable. This means that while the typing experience may be more substantial with the Medium Tactile due to its heavier bottom out force, the Sky POM provides a lighter actuation force which may be preferred for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Dareu Sky POM switch with a 3.8 mm travel distance. While both switches fall within the standard range for travel distance, the Durock switch may provide a slightly more tactile and deep typing experience for those who prefer a more substantial keypress. On the other hand, the Dareu switch offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers or those who value quick keystrokes. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the level of keypress depth and responsiveness desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Medium Tactile for $4.25.
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 Medium Tactile switch is known for its jelly-like sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to other switches. Both switches have distinct sound profiles that can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is accented, stepped, mild, and polished, offering a balanced tactile experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. This switch provides a smooth and refined typing sensation. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance. Both switches offer a different tactile feel, catering to different preferences in typing experience.
Overall, the Durock Medium Tactile and Dareu Sky POM switches each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Medium Tactile offers a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound, while the Sky POM provides a low-pitched sound profile with exceptional smoothness. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on different keyboard setups can help determine which type of sound and feel resonates best with individual users.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Medium Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you value a pronounced yet balanced tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Medium Tactile is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch crafted entirely from POM material with a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, then the Sky POM is the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are aiming for. Consider these factors carefully and choose the switch that best matches your needs.
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