Gateron Melodic vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering a new mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Melodic and Dareu Sky POM are two excellent options to choose from. The Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that has been reinvigorated by Gateron with advancements such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems. This switch offers users the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining smoothness, and is described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy'. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM is a linear switch crafted entirely from POM material, offering premium quality at an accessible price point. Known for its clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force, this switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. When deciding between these switches, it 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
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Dareu Sky POM, there are some distinct differences to note. The Melodic utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Sky POM features a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials offer unique sound profiles, catering to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts. However, the clear translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Melodic provides a visual appeal when paired with RGB lighting, while the POM top housing of the Sky offers a more subtle aesthetic.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Melodic and Sky POM switches use nylon material, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer properties, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users will experience a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel across both switches. Whether it's the Melodic's nylon bottom housing or the Sky POM's nylon bottom housing, the typing experience is enhanced by the qualities of the nylon material, providing a satisfying tactile feedback.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Gateron Melodic and Dareu Sky POM switches offers users a variety of sound profiles and aesthetics to choose from. While the Melodic's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper and crisper sound, the POM top housing of the Sky POM provides a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a consistent typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for sound, feel, and visual appeal in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is clear that the Melodic has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. On the other hand, the Melodic has a medium 60-gram bottom out force while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. Those who prefer a light actuation force may find the Melodic more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a heavier push may lean towards the Sky POM for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer distinct advantages in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Gateron Melodic clicky 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 Melodic being slightly longer than the Sky POM. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the longer travel distance of the Melodic. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile that provides a clean and sharp auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on piles of crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch produces a low-pitched sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Each switch's sound profile can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer a buttery typing experience. The Melodic switch is described as invigorating, providing pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing sensation. The Sky POM switch, meanwhile, is also creamy and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience similar to gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys with minimal resistance. The buttery sensation of both switches enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel.
Overall, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch differ in sound characteristics, they both offer a buttery typing experience that prioritizes smoothness and tactile feedback. If you prefer a higher-pitched, resonant sound with crunchy feedback, the Melodic switch may be more suitable for you. However, if you prefer a lower-pitched, clacky sound with a silky smooth typing experience, the Sky POM switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, both switches provide premium quality and an enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that you will get similar results in terms of typing comfort and satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Melodic clicky switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is important to focus on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a medium bottom out force, a resonant and crunchy sound profile, and a buttery and invigorating typing feel, then the Gateron Melodic switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a combination of buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel, then the Dareu Sky POM switch might be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what kind of typing experience you are looking for and what feels most comfortable for you.
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