Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Dareu Sky POM are two popular options to consider. The Silent Yellow is a linear switch, known for its quiet operation. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its use of POM material, offering a unique clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. While the Silent Yellow may appeal to those seeking a silent typing experience, the Sky POM switch is a great choice for those who prefer a buttery, low-pitched, creamy, and silky feel. 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Dareu Sky POM switches, it is evident that they both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a crisp sound when typing. Similarly, the POM top housing of the Sky POM offers a unique sound profile on the deeper side, providing a more muted typing experience. Both materials are known for their durability and translucency, making them suitable for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches opt for nylon material. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate and POM, absorbing more sound and creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of both the Silent Yellow and the Sky POM contributes to a duller and rounder sound, contrasting with the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate and POM top housing. This combination of different housing materials in each switch allows for a balanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release.
While the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Dareu Sky POM switches differ in terms of top housing (polycarbonate vs. POM) and bottom housing (nylon), they ultimately provide similar results in terms of sound profile. Both switches offer a range of sound options, from the crisper and sharper tones of the Silent Yellow with its polycarbonate top housing to the deeper and more muted sounds of the Sky POM's POM top housing. Additionally, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a fuller sound experience, absorbing excess sound and complementing the characteristics of the top housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal sound preferences and which type of switch profile best suits individual typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Yellow is heavier in both aspects. The Silent Yellow requires 65 grams of actuation force and 80 grams of bottom out force, while the Sky POM only needs 40 grams for actuation force with an unknown bottom out force. The Silent Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Sky POM offers a lighter typing experience, which is ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Silent Yellow being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Dareu Sky POM for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more deliberate key press may gravitate towards the Outemu Silent Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 Silent Yellow 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 Silent Yellow switch is known for its lack of loud clicking noises, providing a quieter typing experience compared to other mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during keystrokes. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Silent Yellow being ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing environment, while the Sky POM adds a unique auditory dimension to typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch provides a smooth keystroke without the tactile bump or audible click, making it a popular choice for those who prefer linear switches. The Dareu Sky POM switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, thanks to its construction entirely from POM material and added lubrication for enhanced smoothness. Typists looking for a luxurious and seamless typing sensation may find the Sky POM switch to be a perfect fit for their needs.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent Yellow and Dareu Sky POM switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, both provide high-quality performance with their own unique traits. Those who prioritize a silent typing experience may lean towards the Silent Yellow, while enthusiasts seeking a buttery and smooth typing feel may gravitate towards the Sky POM. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences in sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, you should take into account the factors that are most important to you. If you prioritize a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch that is best known for a specific quality, the Silent Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch made entirely from POM material that offers a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, then the Sky POM switch would be a great option. When it comes to sound, consider whether you prefer a low-pitched or clacky sound. As for feel, think about whether you prefer a buttery, creamy, or silky typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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