Cherry MX Black vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The MX Black, with its iconic status in the mechanical keyboard world, is beloved for its textured smoothness and deep sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a stiffer and more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its premium quality construction from POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force that appeals to users looking for a buttery and silky typing feel. 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
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Black and Dareu Sky POM switches both utilize nylon for their top housing material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. However, the Dareu Sky POM's POM top housing creates a more muted sound compared to the Cherry MX Black. This difference in sound profile can be attributed to the characteristics of POM, which absorbs sound differently than nylon, resulting in a unique and pleasing typing experience. While both switches offer a similar deep sound profile, the Sky POM's POM top housing sets it apart with a more muted tone.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Cherry MX Black and Dareu Sky POM switches use nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both switches provide a duller and rounder sound during typing. Despite the identical bottom housing material, the differences in the top housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles between the Cherry MX Black and Dareu Sky POM switches.
Overall, the differences between the Cherry MX Black and Dareu Sky POM switches lie in their top housing materials. While both switches use the same nylon material for their bottom housing, the unique POM top housing of the Sky POM switch creates a more muted sound profile compared to the Cherry MX Black. This difference in sound can be attributed to how each housing material absorbs and reflects sound waves during typing. Despite these differences, both switches offer a deep and full sound profile, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch with an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the MX Black is also heavier at 80 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dareu Sky POM due to its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black 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 MX Black being on the longer side and the Sky POM being slightly shorter. For gamers looking for faster response times, the Sky POM may be the preferred option due to its shorter travel distance. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the MX Black more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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, both the Cherry MX Black and Dareu Sky POM switches are described as having a low-pitched tone, providing a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile. While the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors like keyboard and keycap choices, users can expect a similar low-pitched auditory experience from both switches.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black is noted for its textured and stiff qualities, offering noticeable friction and requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the Cherry MX Black switch may offer more resistance and texture in comparison to the Dareu Sky POM, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing feel for users.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black and Dareu Sky POM linear switches boast their unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Cherry MX Black offers a familiar deep sound profile with textured and stiff qualities, the Dareu Sky POM provides a clacky low-pitched sound with a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth typing experience. Depending on user preference for sound and feel, both switches cater to different typing preferences but ultimately aim to provide a pleasant mechanical keyboard experience. Users can expect a diverse range of nuances and tactile feedback from these switches, ensuring a personalized typing experience based on individual preferences and needs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a classic textured smoothness with a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black would be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a gentle actuation force, exceptional smoothness, and a clacky sound, the Dareu Sky POM switch made entirely from POM material is an excellent option. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to your personal typing style and sound preference. Choose the MX Black for a classic feel, or opt for the Sky POM for a smooth and clacky typing experience.
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