Cherry MX Orange vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often narrows down to personal preference and usage scenario. The Cherry MX Orange switch, revived in its MX2A generation, has become synonymous with a satisfying tactile feedback and a reliability that gamers and typists have come to trust. This switch is ideal for those who prioritize a balanced performance at a mid-range actuation force, making it suitable for both gaming and typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its unique construction from POM material, offering an incredibly smooth and refined typing experience characterized by a clacky sound that many enthusiasts find appealing. With a lower actuation force and a creamy feel, it is particularly well-suited for users seeking a lighter touch for long typing sessions or casual gaming. While both switches provide linear smoothness, they cater to different tactile preferences and experiences. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Dareu Sky POM switches, one observes a notable difference in the top housing materials. The MX Orange features a top housing crafted from nylon, a classic choice known for its ability to produce a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softer material not only contributes to a more muted auditory experience but also absorbs sound better than harder plastics, resulting in a rounder and less harsh noise upon key release. In contrast, the Sky POM utilizes POM for its top housing, which is also engineered to create a unique and pleasing sound. While it shares some similarity in providing a deeper sound profile, POM typically has a crisp edge that can differentiate its audio character from nylon, leading to a slightly different tactile experience when typing.
Examining the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, which establishes a level of commonality in sound production between the two models. The nylon bottom of the MX Orange is described similarly to the Sky POM’s nylon bottom housing, showcasing a consistent ability to absorb sound, leading to a fuller sound profile. This shared material means that when pressed, users will find a predominantly similar tactile experience and sound quality during bottoming out. Both switches benefit from the sound dampening qualities of nylon, reinforcing the idea that even though the top housings differ, the nylon base contributes significantly to overall performance.
Overall, while the Cherry MX Orange and Dareu Sky POM use different materials for their top housings (nylon versus POM), their bottom housings are intrinsically aligned with nylon. This similarity in bottom housing allows for comparable auditory experiences during the actuation of both switches. However, the differences in the top housings introduce distinctive elements to the typing experience, as each material alters the key release sound and the resonance felt through the switch. Ultimately, while both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the unique combination of materials in their design reflects the nuanced characteristics of each switch, potentially appealing to different user preferences.
Weight
The Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch differ significantly in their actuation forces, with the MX Orange requiring a force of 55 grams to actuate, while the Sky POM has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. This distinction suggests that users who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for prolonged sessions, might lean towards the Dareu Sky POM. Meanwhile, the Cherry MX Orange, being heavier, could appeal to those who favor a more substantial typing feel, providing tactile feedback that some users appreciate. Unfortunately, the bottom out forces for both switches are unavailable, making it difficult to compare that aspect directly. However, the notable difference in actuation force implies that typists or gamers looking for a lighter option would benefit from the Sky POM, while those who appreciate a firmer actuation would likely prefer the Cherry MX Orange.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Cherry MX Orange has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it align with the traditionally preferred depth in mechanical switches. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means users of the Sky POM may experience a quicker actuation time, which can enhance responsiveness—an aspect often favored by gamers looking for a competitive edge. However, some users might find the MX Orange's deeper travel distance more satisfying, providing a more substantial tactile feedback that can make it preferable for those who appreciate a hearty feel when typing. Thus, if you prefer a more abrupt response, the shorter distance of the Sky POM may be the better choice, whereas those who favor a more traditional, deeper press might opt for the Cherry MX Orange.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 Cherry MX Orange linear switch does not have a specified auditory profile in the provided details, but it can be assumed to have a more neutral sound compared to some of its counterparts. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound that is often perceived as clacky, offering a deeper and mellower tone. This difference in sound may lead to distinct experiences depending on the typing environment and the user’s preference. Both switches will behave acoustically differently when mounted on various keyboards and combined with different keycap materials, but the Sky POM's low-pitched clack is likely to stand out more in casual typing compared to the potentially quieter MX Orange.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch is not explicitly described, but given its linear nature, it is likely to provide a consistent and smooth actuation without tactile feedback, akin to other Cherry MX switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a notably buttery, creamy, and silky feel. This ensures that typing on the Sky POM is smooth and fluid, providing a luxurious typing experience that feels effortless and very enjoyable. The combined descriptions suggest a stark contrast: the MX Orange may deliver a straightforward linear experience, while the Sky POM elevates smoothness to another level, making typing feel more premium.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Orange offers a robust and potentially quieter experience, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out with its low-pitched clacky sound and exceptional smoothness characterized by its buttery, creamy, and silky feel. Ultimately, if you prefer a more subdued auditory experience, the MX Orange may suit your needs, while the Sky POM is perfect for those seeking a more engaging and luxurious typing sound and feel. Regardless of your choice, both switches can lead to a satisfying typing experience, tailored to different preferences and styles.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Cherry MX Orange and the Dareu Sky POM linear switches largely depends on your specific preferences and intended use. If you value a high-quality, reliable performance with a focus on nostalgia and a classic feel, the Cherry MX Orange might be the better option for you, especially if you appreciate a more familiar typing experience. Its enhancements from the original MX Orange switches help meet modern demands while maintaining that sought-after essence. However, if you're looking for something more innovative, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a unique typing feel with its buttery, creamy, and silky characteristics, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a smooth, effortless keystroke experience. Additionally, its low-pitched sound can be satisfying for users who enjoy a deeper and more mellow acoustic profile. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important for your typing habits or gaming needs, and you'll likely find that one switch aligns better with your preferences.
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