Outemu Blue vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, and the Dareu Sky POM, a linear switch. The Outemu Blue switch is best known for its satisfying clicky sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy audible feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its premium quality crafted entirely from POM material, offering a smooth typing experience with a gentle actuation force. While the Blue switch is categorized as clicky, the Sky POM switch is categorized as buttery, low-pitched, creamy, and silky. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The Outemu Blue and Dareu Sky POM switches both feature a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile. However, the Blue's polycarbonate top housing is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Sky POM's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite these differences, both materials offer the benefit of translucency, making them ideal for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Outemu Blue and Dareu Sky POM switches utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. As a classic switch housing material, nylon provides a tactile typing experience that enhances the overall sound and feel of the switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the Outemu Blue and Dareu Sky POM switches may differ in material, the qualities each housing brings to the switches are distributed between the top and the bottom. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these variations, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, the Blue has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. This means that the Blue switch will require a slightly higher force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, both switches have an unknown value. This makes it difficult to determine which switch requires more force to press all the way down. In general, a lighter actuation force is preferred by individuals who type for extended periods of time, while a heavier force may be favored by those looking for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for key activation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we can see that the Blue has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Sky POM's 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Blue being slightly on the longer side. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Blue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Blue clicky switch is known for its high-pitched and clicky sound that is satisfyingly loud, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to other switches. The Sky POM switch's sound is characterized by its clacky nature, adding a unique touch to your typing experience. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is subjective and can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue switch provides a tactile and clicky typing experience with a noticeable bump upon actuation, allowing for precise feedback while typing. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The POM material used in the Sky POM switch contributes to its smoothness, making each keystroke feel seamless and effortless. Whether you prefer the satisfying click of the Outemu Blue or the smoothness of the Dareu Sky POM, both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch each have distinct qualities that set them apart in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue switch is known for its loud and clicky sound with tactile feedback, the Sky POM switch stands out for its smooth and buttery typing experience. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference, whether you prioritize auditory feedback or a smooth typing feel. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer quality features that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Blue clicky switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you are looking for a switch with a clicky sound and a tactile feel, the Outemu Blue switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a linear switch, the Dareu Sky POM switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches have their unique characteristics and it's important to consider your typing style and preferences when making a decision.
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