Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and the Dareu Sky V3 offer distinct features for different preferences. The POM T1 excels in providing maximum tactility with a sharp feedback and clean clack, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a punchy and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is praised for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, offering a comfortable and precise typing experience that caters to a wide range of preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Proprietary
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) and Dareu Sky V3 both offer distinct housing materials that greatly influence the sound profile and feel of the switches. The POM T1 features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Sky V3 utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the POM T1's POM bottom housing contributes to a similar deep and pleasing sound as the top housing, while the Sky V3's nylon bottom housing produces a fuller and deeper sound profile due to its softer material that absorbs more sound.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the POM T1 and Sky V3 offer contrasting sound profiles, they each play a crucial role in the overall typing experience. The split qualities between the two housings result in a unique tactile feedback for users. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. This combination of materials creates a well-rounded typing experience that caters to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the POM T1 (Sunflower) and Dareu Sky V3 both contribute to a satisfying typing experience. The POM top housing of the T1 produces a unique and pleasing sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Sky V3 offers a crisper and sharper sound profile. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the T1 and nylon bottom housing of the Sky V3 each play a vital role in shaping the overall sound profile of the switches. Whether you prefer a deeper and muted sound or a sharper and crisper sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to various typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that they differ in key aspects. The POM T1 (Sunflower) has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Sky V3 boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The difference in weight between the two switches is worth considering, as a lighter actuation force like that of the Sky V3 allows for longer typing periods, ideal for work or gaming. Alternatively, a heavier bottom out force like that of the POM T1 (Sunflower) provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that regardless of whether you choose the POM T1 or the Sky V3, you can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. While some switches may vary in their travel distances, the POM T1 and Sky V3 offer a consistent experience in this aspect, making them equally suitable options for those who prefer a 4 mm travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding their unique tactile and linear characteristics, rather than the travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
The Dareu Sky V3 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 V3 for $4.76.
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 POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant and clean clack sound profile, providing an immersive auditory experience with a higher-pitched tone. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch provides a neutral sound signature that is moderate and suitable for various typing preferences. The Sky V3 switch offers a more subdued sound, producing a dampened and subtle sound profile when pressed. Both switches are versatile in sound characteristics, with the POM T1 leaning towards a sharper and more distinct sound, while the Sky V3 focuses on a balanced and comfortable sound experience.
Moving on to feel, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch boasts a sharp and invigorating tactile feedback with a pronounced and snappy tactile bump. This switch is designed for those seeking a highly tactile and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 switch provides a mild typing experience that is gentle and approachable to most users. The Sky V3 switch falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback, offering a comfortable typing feel without overwhelming characteristics. Both switches cater to different preferences in tactile feedback, with the POM T1 delivering a more intense and dynamic typing sensation compared to the Sky V3's more subtle and milder feel.
In conclusion, the POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch stands out for its sharp tactility and resonant sound profile, ideal for users looking for a punchy and immersive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch excels in providing a balanced sound signature and a mild tactile feel, catering to a wider range of typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with the POM T1 offering a more intense and vibrant typing experience, while the Sky V3 provides a versatile and comfortable typing feel for various users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and sound. If you value maximum tactility and a sharp, clean clack sound profile, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound signature and a medium-light weight switch that offers comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactility and sound (POM T1) or a balance between comfort and versatility (Sky V3). Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
