Gateron Mountain Top vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mountain Top and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, there are key differences to consider. The Gateron Mountain Top is designed with office environments in mind, providing a quiet yet tactile typing experience that is ideal for professional settings. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a premium feel at a more affordable price point, delivering a clacky sound and smooth actuation force. While the Mountain Top switch is bouncy and easy-to-press, the Sky POM switch is buttery and low-pitched. 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 housing materials of the Gateron Mountain Top and Dareu Sky POM both offer unique sound profiles due to their use of different materials. The Mountain Top's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Sky POM's POM top housing creates a more muted and deeper sound, offering a distinct auditory experience. While both materials excel at providing a pleasant typing sound, they do so in slightly different ways, catering to individual preferences.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Mountain Top and Sky POM switches both utilize nylon material, resulting in a similar sound profile that is deeper and fuller. The use of nylon in the bottom housing allows for a quieter and rounder sound compared to harder plastics, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches. Despite this similarity, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch may vary slightly between the two models, providing a nuanced difference in tactile feedback.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Gateron Mountain Top and Dareu Sky POM switches offers a diverse typing experience for users. While the nylon top housing of the Mountain Top produces a more rounded and dull sound, the POM top housing of the Sky POM delivers a unique and muted sound profile. Additionally, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent deep and full sound that enhances the typing experience. Whether users prefer a softer, more absorptive material or a more muted and deep sound, both the Mountain Top and Sky POM switches have something to offer for enthusiasts seeking a customized typing experience.
Weight
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch. While both switches have the same actuation force of 40 grams, the Mountain Top requires a slightly lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Mountain Top switch may be the better choice. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Sky POM, as it potentially offers a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mountain Top linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gateron switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dareu switch, making it potentially more preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. The Dareu switch, on the other hand, offers a slightly longer travel distance which may provide a more satisfying keypress for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of 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 Mountain Top 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments, providing a moderate level of sound that is not too distracting. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches provide unique sound qualities, with the Mountain Top being more versatile and the Sky POM offering a distinct auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, and subtle, providing a range of tactile feedback options for users to enjoy. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience that is unparalleled. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, with the Mountain Top focusing on responsiveness and comfort, while the Sky POM prioritizes smoothness and uniformity in keystrokes.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the Mountain Top offers a more neutral sound profile and a bouncy typing experience, the Sky POM provides a low-pitched sound and a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, you can choose between these switches to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and are suitable for different typing environments and user preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Mountain Top linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, you should consider your specific needs and preferences. If you value a light actuation force and a quiet typing experience for professional settings, the Gateron Mountain Top switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a premium POM material construction with a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Sky POM switch may be more suited to your taste. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize discretion and light actuation or a unique tactile experience with premium materials. Consider these factors carefully to make an informed choice between these two linear switches.
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