Bsun Olive vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Bsun Olive, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Sky POM, a linear switch. The Bsun Olive is renowned for its all-POM housings that deliver a resonant, deep sound, setting it apart in the market. With medium weight and pronounced tactile feedback, the Olive switch offers a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out that is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its POM material construction, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', the Sky POM offers premium quality at an accessible price point. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Bsun Olive and the Dareu Sky POM both feature POM top housing materials that create a deep and relatively muted sound profile. This similarity means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound output from both keyboards. However, the bottom housing materials differ between the two models. The Olive uses a POM bottom housing, which complements the top housing to create a cohesive sound profile. In contrast, the Sky POM utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition.
In terms of sound dynamics, the POM top housing in both the Bsun Olive and the Dareu Sky POM contributes to the overall typing experience by producing a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. However, the nylon bottom housing in the Sky POM offers a different acoustic profile compared to the POM bottom housing in the Olive. While the POM bottom housing in the Olive may create a more consistent sound when pressing down on the keys, the nylon bottom housing in the Sky POM absorbs more sound and produces a duller, rounder sound, particularly noticeable when letting go of a key.
Ultimately, the choice between the Bsun Olive and the Dareu Sky POM may come down to personal preference in terms of sound output. While both keyboards feature POM top housings that result in a similar sound profile, the differing bottom housing materials offer distinct typing experiences. Whether one prefers the consistent sound of the POM bottom housing in the Olive or the deeper, fuller sound generated by the nylon bottom housing in the Sky POM will depend on individual typing preferences and desired sound aesthetics. Both keyboards offer unique qualities that cater to different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, there are notable differences. The Olive has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams, making the Sky POM the lighter option in this aspect. However, the Olive has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sky POM due to its lower actuation force, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Olive with its heavier bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Olive is the heavier option, but for users seeking similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, both switches provide a tactile typing experience worth considering.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile 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 Bsun Olive has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dareu Sky POM. The shorter travel distance of the Olive tactile switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Sky POM linear switch may provide a more deliberate and satisfying keypress for those who prefer a bit more depth. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 Bsun Olive switch is best known for its resonant, deep sound that stands out. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch offers a clacky sound that is unique and pleasing to the ear. The Olive switch provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Sky POM switch emphasizes smoothness and accessibility. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Olive switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, offering a sharp and snappy typing experience. The Dareu Sky POM switch, in contrast, provides a buttery, creamy, and silky typing sensation that is smooth and uniform. The differences in feel between these two switches cater to different preferences, with the Olive switch offering a more pronounced tactile feedback and the Sky POM switch focusing on smoothness and effortless keystrokes.
Overall, the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Olive switch excels in providing a deep and satisfying sound with pronounced tactile feedback, the Sky POM switch stands out for its clacky sound and smooth typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring that users can find a switch that best suits their needs. Whether you choose the Olive or the Sky POM switch, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with unique qualities that enhance your overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force that offers a pronounced tactile feedback and a deep, resonant sound, the Bsun Olive switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a smooth sound, low actuation force, and buttery, creamy typing experience, the Dareu Sky POM switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired tactile feedback when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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