Outemu Lotus vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lotus and the Dareu Sky POM both offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Lotus is a linear switch that is known for its smooth actuation and consistent feel. On the other hand, the Sky POM is also a linear switch, but stands out for its premium quality made entirely from POM material, providing a clacky sound and low-pitched feel. While the Lotus offers a reliable and smooth typing experience, the Sky POM introduces a buttery and creamy feel with a unique sound profile. 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
35g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
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 Lotus and Dareu Sky POM both use different materials for their top housings, with the Lotus utilizing nylon and the Sky POM using POM. Both materials are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, but they do so in slightly different ways. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than POM, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM creates a more muted sound that is on the deeper side. While both materials aim to provide a pleasing and unique sound experience, the slight differences in their properties may appeal to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Outemu Lotus and Dareu Sky POM use nylon. This classic switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. As a result, both switches provide a similar duller and rounder sound when bottoming out keys. The consistency in using nylon for the bottom housing allows for a consistent typing experience across both switches, even though they may have different top housings. This ensures that typing on switches that utilize nylon bottom housings will offer a similar sound and feel regardless of the top housing material used.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound profile of a switch, it becomes clear that the bottom housing has more of an influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. The properties of the bottom housing material, whether it be nylon or POM, play a significant role in the sound produced when a key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing material, while still important, has more influence on the sound when a key is released. This balance between top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience that combines the qualities of both materials to create a well-rounded sound profile.
Weight
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 40 grams, although the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Lotus switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, while the Sky POM switch may be better suited for individuals who prefer a slightly stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different options for actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a variety of preferences for typing and gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Sky POM. With a difference of 0.5 mm, the Sky POM offers a slightly longer key press compared to the Lotus. The shorter travel distance of the Lotus may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Sky POM may provide a more satisfying depth to key presses for those who prefer a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Lotus 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 Lotus switch does not have a specific reputation or characteristic sound associated with it. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is known for producing a low-pitched and clacky sound. This sound profile is often described as bass-heavy and mellow, providing a unique auditory experience for the user. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard chassis and keycaps being used, so individual experiences may vary.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Lotus switch does not have any particular feel associated with it. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is often described as buttery, creamy, and silky. These descriptors all point to a smooth and effortless typing experience, with minimal resistance and a uniform sensation across all keystrokes. The POM material used in the Dareu Sky switches contributes to this luxurious feel, allowing for a satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate a smooth actuation.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is clear that the Sky POM offers a more defined sound and feel profile. While the Lotus may provide a more neutral or versatile option for those who prefer a less pronounced typing experience, the Sky POM stands out for its clacky sound and buttery, creamy, and silky feel. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more understated or a more luxurious typing experience, knowing that both switches offer quality and performance at different ends of the spectrum.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams and are looking for a switch with a certain characteristic, the Outemu Lotus may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are interested in a switch that offers premium quality at an accessible price point, with a clacky sound and smooth feel characterized by POM material, then the Dareu Sky POM switch might be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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