KTT Purple Star vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Star and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Purple Star and Dareu Sky POM stand out as excellent choices, each offering unique features to cater to different preferences. The Purple Star, a linear switch, is renowned for its all-POM construction, providing a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. With a very light 45g bottom-out, it is an ideal option for light typists seeking ease and comfort while typing. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM, also a linear switch, distinguishes itself with its premium quality crafted entirely from POM material at an accessible price point. It offers a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. The Sky POM is characterized by its 'buttery', 'low-pitched', 'creamy', and 'silky' properties. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, providing users with different typing experiences. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the KTT Purple Star and Dareu Sky POM keyboards feature POM top housings, which are known for creating a pleasing and unique sound with a deeper and relatively more muted profile. This means that users can expect a similar auditory experience when typing on either of these keyboards. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Purple Star utilizes POM material while the Sky POM incorporates nylon. The POM bottom housing is likely to contribute to a deeper sound profile, whereas the nylon bottom housing may offer a fuller sound due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature.
In terms of sound characteristics, the POM top housing of both the KTT Purple Star and Dareu Sky POM keyboards is likely to provide a similar experience with a deep and muted sound profile. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, where the Purple Star uses POM while the Sky POM utilizes nylon. The nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM may contribute to a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer nature compared to the POM bottom housing of the Purple Star. This can result in a slightly different typing experience between the two keyboards, with the bottom-out sound and feel being influenced by the bottom housing material.
Although both the KTT Purple Star and Dareu Sky POM keyboards feature POM top housings that create a unique sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials may lead to variations in the overall typing experience. The POM bottom housing of the Purple Star and nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM offer distinct sound characteristics, with the POM providing a deeper sound and the nylon offering a fuller sound. This means that users may notice a difference in the sound produced when pressing down on keys or releasing them. Ultimately, the choice between these two keyboards may come down to individual preference for sound profile and feel.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Purple Star linear switch is slightly higher than that of the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, with the Purple Star requiring 43 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Purple Star is also heavier, requiring 50 grams compared to the Sky POM which has an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Purple Star would be considered the heavier option between the two. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sky POM switch, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Purple Star. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, so regardless of the slight differences in force requirements, users can expect a similar overall feel when typing.
Travel distance
The KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. However, the slight difference in travel distance may be noticeable to some users. The Purple Star may feel slightly more responsive due to its shorter travel distance, while the Sky POM may provide a bit more depth to the keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing experience.
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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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
In terms of sound, both the KTT Purple Star and Dareu Sky POM switches are described as having a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard PCB, case, stabilizers, and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Purple Star switch is characterized as mild and easy-to-press, offering a gentle typing experience with minimal force required for activation. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel, with the Sky POM switch emphasizing a more luxurious and velvety sensation.
Considering the available information, both the KTT Purple Star and Dareu Sky POM switches offer a smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. While the Purple Star switch is tailored towards light typists with its easy-to-press design, the Sky POM switch aims to provide a premium typing experience at an accessible price point with its buttery and creamy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Purple Star linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your typing preference and style. If you prioritize a light typing experience with a low-pitched sound and easy-to-press keys, the Purple Star may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a premium quality switch with a clacky sound, buttery feel, and silky typing experience, the Sky POM could be the ideal option. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what qualities you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose the one that best suits your typing needs and enjoy a satisfying typing experience.
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