Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to deciding on a mechanical keyboard switch, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Sky POM both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The NovelKeys Cream is praised for its heftier linear typing experience and deep sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a tactile and resonant typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM stands out for its premium quality crafted from POM material, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force at an accessible price point. While both switches are categorized as 'Buttery' and 'Low-pitched', the Cream is described as 'Textured' and 'Resonant', while the Sky POM is labeled as 'Creamy' and 'Silky'. 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
55g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Sky POM both feature POM top housings that create a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side, with a relatively more muted tone. This means that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either of these switches. However, the NovelKeys Cream has a POM bottom housing, while the Dareu Sky POM utilizes a nylon bottom housing. The Nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the NovelKeys Cream.
In terms of construction, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The Nylon bottom housing of the Dareu Sky POM will likely contribute to a softer and more cushioned typing experience compared to the NovelKeys Cream's POM bottom housing. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound produced when releasing a key. The POM top housings of both switches will contribute to a similar muted and deeper sound profile, showcasing their shared characteristics in this aspect.
Overall, while both the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Dareu Sky POM feature POM top housings that provide a unique sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material sets them apart. The Nylon bottom housing of the Dareu Sky POM offers a softer and fuller typing experience, absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder tone. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the NovelKeys Cream may provide a slightly crisper bottom-out feel. Despite these variations, the switches share similarities in their top housing material and overall sound profile, offering users a choice between different typing experiences based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The NovelKeys Cream has a higher actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Sky POM has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The NovelKeys Cream offers a more substantial typing feel due to its higher force requirements, while the Sky POM provides a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and key response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we can see that the NovelKeys Cream has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sky POM has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the NovelKeys Cream being slightly longer than the Sky POM. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.8 mm travel distance of the Sky POM, while those who prefer a more substantial depth to their key presses may opt for the 4 mm travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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
In terms of sound, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant typing experience, with a deep sound profile that is bass-heavy and mellow, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch provides a low-pitched sound that is characterized as clacky, offering a unique and premium typing sound. Both switches deliver distinct auditory experiences that can be further influenced by the type of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Additionally, it provides an invigorating tactile feedback with a moderate to firm actuation force. Meanwhile, the Dareu Sky POM switch is also noted for its buttery feel, along with a creamy and silky sensation that enhances the overall smoothness of the typing experience. Both switches deliver a premium tactile feedback that can cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Overall, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch excels in providing a deep and resonant sound profile with a buttery and invigorating tactile feel for those seeking a heftier typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a clacky sound paired with a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth typing feel, providing a premium typing experience at a more accessible price point. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deeper sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Sky POM could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing experience preferences and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
