Outemu Gold vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Gold clicky switch to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, some key differences become apparent. The Gold switch is best known for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch stands out for its smoothness and gentle actuation force, offering a quieter typing experience. The Gold switch is categorized as a clicky switch, while the Sky POM is categorized as a buttery, low-pitched, creamy, and silky linear switch. Both switches have their advantages, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Comparing the Outemu Gold and Dareu Sky POM housing materials, one key difference is the use of polycarbonate in the Gold's top housing and POM in the Sky POM's top housing. Polycarbonate offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more resonant sound. On the other hand, POM creates a deeper and more muted sound, appealing to those who enjoy a softer typing experience. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound output.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Outemu Gold and the Dareu Sky POM feature nylon bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a deeper sound profile. Despite both switches utilizing nylon in the bottom housing, the overall typing experience may vary based on how the top and bottom housings interact with each other during key presses.
While the Outemu Gold and Dareu Sky POM may differ in their top housing materials, they both offer a unique and satisfying typing experience based on their choice of housing materials. The Outemu Gold's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the Sky POM's POM top housing offers a deep and muted sound profile. Both switches utilize nylon in the bottom housing, resulting in a fuller sound profile that is enhanced by the softer nature of nylon. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound output and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is clear that the Gold switch is slightly heavier. The Gold has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Sky POM has an actuation force of 40 grams and an unknown bottom out force. The Gold switch provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier weights, making it ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the lighter actuation force of the Sky POM switch may be more suitable for those who type for extended periods of time or engage in long gaming sessions. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with options to match their typing preferences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, the Gold has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.8 mm travel distance of the Sky POM. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold being on the longer side and the Sky POM on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM for faster response times, while those who appreciate a deeper key press may opt for the Outemu Gold. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
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 Gold 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 Gold clicky switch is known for its clicky sound, providing a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is best described as having a low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. The buttery, creamy, and silky attributes of the Sky POM switch contribute to a luxurious typing experience that minimizes resistance and enhances overall smoothness.
In conclusion, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold switch provides a clicky sound without a specific feel descriptor, the Sky POM switch stands out for its low-pitched sound profile and buttery, creamy, and silky feel. Both switches may offer a satisfactory typing experience, but with the Gold switch providing a clicky auditory feedback and the Sky POM switch focusing on a smooth and luxurious keystroke sensation, users can choose based on their preference for sound and feel. Additionally, it should be noted that individual preferences and typing habits will ultimately determine which switch is the best fit for a newcomer to the world of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, you'll want to consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a clicky sound, the Outemu Gold switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you value premium quality materials, smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, the Dareu Sky POM switch made from POM material might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific qualities that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.