Outemu Black vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and the Dareu Sky POM both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Black is best known for its linear switch design, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM stands out for its POM material construction, providing a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness with a gentle actuation force. While the Outemu Black may be preferred for its simplicity and reliability, the Dareu Sky POM offers a more luxurious typing experience at a budget-friendly 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
65g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Dareu Sky POM, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Black results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound. Conversely, the POM top housing of the Sky POM creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is preferred by many enthusiasts. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. This consistency in material choice ensures that each switch provides a reliable and satisfying typing experience.
When considering how the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, it becomes clear that the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches will result in a consistent typing experience when it comes to the sound produced during key presses. On the other hand, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate or POM, will influence the sound when releasing a key. Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Black and the Dareu Sky POM offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, making them both viable options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Black switch is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. The Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams. The bottom out force for the Sky POM is unknown, making it difficult to determine how it compares in terms of heaviness to the Outemu Black. Ultimately, the weight of a switch is a crucial factor to consider based on personal preference, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, and heavier switches offering a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Black linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Sky POM linear switch. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Black offering a slightly deeper feel while the Sky POM provides a slightly shallower experience. Gamers may prefer the Sky POM for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Outemu Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Black linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched, clacky sound, giving it a unique and satisfying auditory feedback. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Black switch is often praised for its smooth keystrokes, providing a consistent and reliable typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing sensation. This buttery feel is achieved through the use of high-quality POM material and meticulous craftsmanship, resulting in a typing experience that is truly top-notch.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Black linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences, both switches excel in their own right. The Outemu Black provides a quiet and reliable typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more subtle keyboard operation. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its clacky sound and buttery-smooth keystrokes, making it a standout choice for users looking for premium quality at an affordable price point. Ultimately, the right switch for you will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, but rest assured that both options will deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Black linear switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, you should keep in mind the key differences between the two. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a particular characteristic of the Outemu Black switch that is best known for None, then the Black switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and clacky typing experience with a lower actuation force, then the Dareu Sky POM switch, with its POM material construction and buttery, creamy, and silky feel, might be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and what features matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
