Gateron Mini i vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it all boils down to personal preference and typing style. The Gateron Mini i switches are perfect for those who value a subtle tactility in their key presses, making them ideal for office environments where a quiet and professional typing experience is preferred. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switches offer a smooth and clacky typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced sound and buttery smooth keystrokes. 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Mini i and Dareu Sky POM both utilize different housing materials for their switch components. The Mini i features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to its soft plastic nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Sky POM boasts a POM top housing that produces a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper tone that is relatively more muted compared to nylon. While both materials offer a deep sound profile, the Mini i's nylon top housing may provide a duller and rounder sound, whereas the Sky POM's POM top housing offers a more distinct and muted sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Mini i and Sky POM utilize nylon material which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. This soft plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. The combination of the nylon top and bottom housing in both switches may provide a consistent sound experience throughout typing sessions, offering users a familiar and comfortable feel with each keystroke.
When comparing the overall sound and feel of the Gateron Mini i and Dareu Sky POM switches, it's important to note that the split between the top and bottom housing materials can affect the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. While the Mini i and Sky POM may differ in their top housing materials, their common use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar deep and full sound profile that is characteristic of switches utilizing this classic material. As a result, users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch, with slight variations in sound quality depending on the specific housing material used.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch are quite different. The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch also has an actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The Gateron Mini i tactile switch provides a consistent and light typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch may offer a different feel due to its unknown bottom out force, potentially providing a heavier and more substantial typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with one being lighter and the other potentially being heavier, depending on the bottom out force of the Sky POM switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Dareu Sky POM linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Mini i offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which may be preferred by gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Sky POM provides a slightly deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various settings and users, striking a balance between actuation force and sound output. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch provides a low-pitched sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, adding a unique auditory experience to typing. Depending on your preference for sound, the Mini i offers a versatile option while the Sky POM provides a distinct acoustic character.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is known for its bouncy and easy-to-press keys, offering a lively typing experience with minimal resistance. The keys are described as mild and subtle, providing a comfortable and low-impact typing feel suitable for extended use. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is often described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with fluid and effortless keystrokes. The Sky POM switch presents a different tactile sensation compared to the Mini i, catering to those who prefer a smoother typing feel.
Overall, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Mini i excels in providing a balanced and versatile sound profile with a comfortable and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky POM stands out with its premium POM material construction, offering a smooth and buttery typing feel with a distinctive low-pitched sound. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your typing environment and preferences. If you value a quiet and professional typing experience with a subtle tactility and lightweight feel, the Gateron Mini i switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, the Dareu Sky POM switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prefer and what will work best for your specific needs.
Mentioned in this article
