Sarokeys Purple Sakura vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Purple Sakura is praised for its tactile feedback with a snappy response and buttery downstroke, offering a balanced tactility that is pronounced yet not overpowering, resulting in a mild and neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Sky POM stands out for its linear design crafted entirely from POM material, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. While both switches share attributes like being buttery in feel, they diverge in sound profile and actuation force. Whether you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a softer sound or a smoother linear feel with a crisper sound, each switch has its own appeal. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and the Dareu Sky POM, we can see that both switches have polycarbonate top housings. This means that both switches will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. However, due to the translucency of polycarbonate, they are especially ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura has a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Sky POM also has a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound experience.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings, the sound profiles of the Purple Sakura and the Sky POM differ due to their respective POM and nylon bottom housings. The Sky POM's POM bottom housing creates a more muted and deeper sound profile, while the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials highlights the impact that different housing materials can have on the overall sound profile of a switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. While both switches have polycarbonate top housings for a clear and resonant sound profile, the differences in bottom housing materials between the Purple Sakura and the Sky POM lead to distinct sound experiences. Whether you prefer a sharper sound with the Purple Sakura's nylon bottom housing or a deeper sound with the Sky POM's POM bottom housing, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Sarokeys Purple Sakura has a heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Sky POM. The Purple Sakura requires 50 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 60 grams to bottom out, providing a medium typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky POM only needs 40 grams of force to actuate a keystroke, with the bottom out force being unknown. This makes the Dareu Sky POM a lighter option in terms of key press force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of use, the Dareu Sky POM may be the better choice. However, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Purple Sakura has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the Sky POM has a longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Purple Sakura's shorter travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the Sky POM's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on which one is more suitable for individual typing or gaming needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura and Dareu Sky POM switches offer different experiences. The Purple Sakura has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Sky POM has a low-pitched sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, both switches are described as providing a buttery typing experience. The Purple Sakura is also noted for its mild and snappy tactile feedback, offering a smooth and responsive keystroke. On the other hand, the Sky POM is characterized as creamy and silky, offering a smooth and effortless typing sensation with minimized resistance. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, with slight differences in their tactile feedback.
Overall, while both the Sarokeys Purple Sakura and Dareu Sky POM switches offer a buttery typing experience, they differ in sound profile and additional tactile characteristics. Choosing between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. However, based on the similar buttery feel they both provide, it can be expected that users will have a comparable typing experience in terms of smoothness and fluidity.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a tactile switch with a moderate actuation force, a mild and neutral sound signature, and a buttery, mild, and snappy feel, then the Purple Sakura may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a low-pitched sound profile, a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth feel, and a gentle actuation force, then the Sky POM could be the ideal option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, so choose the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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