SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Dareu Sky POM offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The SP-Star Meteor Orange is a tactile switch that is praised for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. 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. If you prefer a softer and more subtle typing experience, the Meteor Orange may be the way to go, while the Sky POM is ideal for those who appreciate a smoother and clackier typing feel. 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
57g
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
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Dareu Sky POM both offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the use of nylon in their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the Sky POM's POM top housing creates a more muted and unique sound profile compared to the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing. This difference in sound characteristics may appeal to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
While both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the Dareu Sky POM stands out with its nylon bottom housing, offering a similar deep and full sound profile as the Meteor Orange's nylon bottom housing. This continuation of the nylon material in the bottom housing ensures consistency in sound quality and typing experience for both switches. However, the difference lies in the material of the top housing, with the Sky POM using POM for a deeper and more muted sound, contrasting with the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing for a fuller sound profile.
In terms of functionality, the combination of different housing materials in the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Dareu Sky POM impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The qualities of the bottom housing contribute more to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed, emphasizing the importance of material choice for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key, highlighting the role of each component in shaping the overall sound profile of a mechanical switch.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, as it requires None grams of force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch has a heavier actuation force of 40 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Meteor Orange switch requires 57 grams, which is medium-light, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM switch is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Meteor Orange switch for a longer typing experience, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Sky POM switch. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience for users, and selecting the right switch weight is crucial for optimal performance and comfort.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sky POM. The Meteor Orange's 4 mm distance is more traditional, offering a slightly deeper keypress feel, which may be preferred by those who like a bit more depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky POM's shorter 3.8 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers or users looking for a more responsive typing experience. Both switches offer different options for those looking for varying levels of keypress depth and responsiveness, catering to individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a gentle and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch produces a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow in tone. When it comes to feel, the Meteor Orange switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that reduces friction. In contrast, the Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Overall, while the sound and feel of these two switches differ slightly, they both provide a premium typing experience. Whether you prefer the neutral and thocky sound of the Meteor Orange or the low-pitched and buttery feel of the Sky POM, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, your choice between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, but rest assured that you will get a high-quality typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a gentle, neutral sound, the Meteor Orange switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with an unknown bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and exceptional smoothness, the Sky POM switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound.
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