SP-Star Meteor White vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, there are some notable differences to consider. The Meteor White is recognized for its subdued and gentle linear feel, providing a soft and quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky POM offers a clacky sound profile, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force due to its POM material construction. While the Meteor White is best suited for those seeking a neutral and mild typing experience with a thocky sound profile, the Sky POM is ideal for users who prefer a buttery feel, low-pitched sound, and creamy 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
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
Gold plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The difference in housing materials between the SP-Star Meteor White and the Dareu Sky POM switches can greatly impact the sound profiles of each. The Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Sky POM's POM top housing creates a unique sound that leans towards the deeper side and is more muted compared to nylon. This contrast highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly alter the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Meteor White and the Sky POM switches use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Despite sharing the same bottom housing material, the two switches may still differ in sound due to the uniqueness of their top housings. It is interesting to see how the same material can impact the overall sound profile differently based on its placement in the switch.
The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches can affect the typing experience in various ways. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key. This division of characteristics showcases the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials when designing switches to achieve a desired typing sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is clear that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Meteor White has an actuation force of None grams, making it easy to trigger keystrokes, while the bottom out force of 57 grams provides a medium-light typing feel. On the other hand, the Sky POM has an actuation force of 40 grams, providing a slightly heavier touch for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, although the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Meteor White is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Sky POM is heavier. Depending on personal preference, users may opt for the lighter Meteor White for longer typing sessions or the heavier Sky POM for a more pronounced and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and usage.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor White linear 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 traditional range of travel distances, with the Meteor White being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may lean towards the Meteor White switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific feel that each individual user is looking for in their keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral and thocky sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and providing a satisfying thud when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The choice of board and keycaps can also impact the sound of a switch, so it is essential to consider these factors when selecting a switch based on sound preferences.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Meteor White switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle typing feel and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, delivering a smooth and effortless keystroke experience. These qualities indicate that the Sky POM switch focuses on providing a luxurious and refined typing sensation, possibly due to factory lubing or specific materials used in its construction.
Overall, both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch excel in different aspects of sound and feel. The Meteor White switch offers a soft and subdued typing experience with a gentle sound profile, while the Sky POM switch provides a premium and clacky typing experience with a smooth and buttery feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience. However, if a user enjoys a neutral sound and mild feel, they are likely to get similar results from both switches in terms of overall typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider the characteristics that best fit your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a gentle and soft typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Meteor White may be the right choice for you. Its subdued sound profile and smooth feel make it ideal for various settings. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound profile, exceptional smoothness, and a buttery typing sensation, the Sky POM switch crafted from POM material could be the perfect match for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, actuation force, or a combination of these factors in your mechanical keyboard switch.