KTT Mint vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Mint and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, there are a few key factors to consider. The Mint, a linear switch, is loved for its smooth typing experience and poppy thockiness, offering a light and fleeting feel. On the other hand, the Sky POM, also a linear switch, stands out for its premium quality made from POM material, delivering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. While the Mint is described as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Sky POM is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Mint and Dareu Sky POM feature polycarbonate top housings, providing users with a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, while the Mint's polycarbonate top housing offers a higher-pitched sound, the Sky POM's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can cater to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific tone in their typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Mint and Sky POM utilize nylon material, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that both keyboards offer a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality, catering to those who prioritize a specific sound profile during typing sessions.
When considering the overall sound experience of the KTT Mint and Dareu Sky POM, the combination of polycarbonate top housing with nylon bottom housing in both keyboards creates a harmonious balance between a sharp and resonant sound from the top housing and a deep and full sound from the bottom housing. While the specific characteristics of each housing material may vary, the overall sound profile of the two keyboards is likely to be similar due to the combination of these contrasting materials. Ultimately, users can choose between the Mint and Sky POM based on their preference for a higher-pitched or deeper sound profile during typing sessions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is clear that the Mint has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. Both switches have a similar medium-light actuation force, making them suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the bottom out force of the Mint is 53 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. This means that the Mint may provide a slightly heavier keystroke feel when fully pressed compared to the Sky POM, which could be a factor to consider for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force, but the Mint may be slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint 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. The Mint offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Sky POM provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM for faster response times, while others may prefer the more substantial depth of the Mint for a more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch are described as having a low-pitched tone, which typically results in a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. This means that users can expect a pleasant and soothing auditory experience from either switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Mint linear switch is often described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction, resulting in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is characterized as offering a buttery, creamy, and silky typing sensation. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance, allowing users to effortlessly glide their fingers across the keys with ease.
In conclusion, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mint switch provides a light and fleeting typing feel with a low-pitched sound, the Sky POM switch stands out for its clacky sound and exceptionally smooth typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can offer a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing needs. If you enjoy a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a light and poppy thockiness, the Mint switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a premium quality switch with a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, the Sky POM switch could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on whether you prioritize a smooth and light feel or a clacky and premium typing experience. Evaluate your preferences carefully to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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