PH Studio Milk Tea vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the PH Studio Milk Tea and Dareu Sky POM both offer unique qualities worth considering. The Milk Tea linear switch stands out for its high-pitched yet muted sound profile, with a bottom-out force of 43.5g that caters to extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch, made entirely from POM material, provides a clacky sound, smooth keystrokes, and a gentle actuation force, all at an accessible price point. While the Milk Tea switch boasts characteristics such as being clacky, high-pitched, and polished, the Sky POM switch offers a buttery, low-pitched, and creamy typing experience. Each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles, providing options for various needs. 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
37.5g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Dareu Sky POM, it is clear that both switches utilize POM for their top housing. This results in a similar sound profile for both switches, with a deeper and more muted tone. However, the bottom housing of the Milk Tea is also made of POM, while the Sky POM utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. The use of nylon in the Sky POM's bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Milk Tea, due to its softer plastic properties that absorb more sound.
The difference in bottom housing materials between the Milk Tea and the Sky POM leads to variations in the typing experience. The bottom-out sound and feel of the Milk Tea will be influenced by the POM housing, emphasizing the deeper and more muted sound profile characteristic of POM. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM will result in a typing experience that is characterized by a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall sound profile of the switch when pressed.
Overall, while the top housing of both the PH Studio Milk Tea and the Dareu Sky POM is made of POM and thus creates a similar sound profile, the choice of bottom housing material sets these switches apart. The Milk Tea's all-POM construction results in a consistent and unique sound experience, while the Sky POM's combination of POM and nylon offers a more dynamic typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches provide a pleasing sound profile, but the choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch reveals some key differences. The Milk Tea switch has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 43.5 grams. In contrast, the Sky POM switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Milk Tea switch may be preferred by those looking for a smoother typing experience, while the heavier actuation force of the Sky POM switch may cater to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that the Sky POM has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Milk Tea. Both are within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may result in a slightly different feel when typing or gaming. If you prefer a switch with a slightly longer travel distance, the Sky POM may be the better option for you. Conversely, if you prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker key presses, the Milk Tea would be a suitable choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a unique auditory experience with a high-pitched yet muted sound, while the Dareu Sky POM switch is characterized by a low-pitched clacky sound. Depending on personal preference, the Milk Tea switch may be more appealing for those who prefer a balanced and subtle sound profile, whereas the Sky POM switch is suitable for those who enjoy a sharper and more percussive sound. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Milk Tea switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience, thanks to its stem material Ly which enhances the overall smoothness of each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing sensation, providing a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and minimal resistance, allowing for a comfortable typing session.
In conclusion, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Milk Tea switch excels in providing a balanced sound profile and a polished typing experience, the Sky POM switch stands out with its clacky sound and buttery feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience that prioritizes smoothness and comfort. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound and typing feel, as both options offer excellent quality for an enjoyable typing session.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you value a light bottom-out force and a high-pitched, polished typing experience, the Milk Tea switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch crafted from POM material with a low-pitched, buttery feel, the Sky POM switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and priorities. Consider what matters most to you in a keyboard switch and choose accordingly.
Mentioned in this article
