SP-Star RedBlue vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star RedBlue and Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The RedBlue is a linear switch that is best known for its medium-light typing experience and low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more subtle tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Sky POM, also a linear switch, stands out for its premium quality crafted entirely from POM material, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. While the RedBlue offers a thocky and polished typing feel, the Sky POM boasts a buttery and silky smoothness. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users. 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
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star RedBlue and Dareu Sky POM both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. However, the Dareu Sky POM's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate top housing. While both materials provide unique sound profiles, the choice between them ultimately depends on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
In terms of bottom housings, the SP-Star RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate material, while the Dareu Sky POM features a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue contributes to its sharp and crisp sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. Again, the decision between the two materials will come down to individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact with each other in a switch, it's important to note that each material brings unique qualities to the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing the key. Despite the differences between the polycarbonate and POM housings of the RedBlue and Sky POM, users can expect similar results in terms of key feel and sound quality, as both materials are known for their distinct characteristics in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, a few key differences emerge. The RedBlue switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. In contrast, the Sky POM switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it lighter in terms of initial keypress. However, the bottom out force for the Sky POM switch is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Sky POM switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the RedBlue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
The SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the RedBlue being slightly longer than the Sky POM. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sky POM, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the RedBlue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience that is suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switches also feature a low-pitched sound, contributing to a bass-heavy and mellow tone. While both switches share a similar low-pitched sound, the RedBlue switches may offer a more versatile sound profile due to their neutrality. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches provide a mild and polished typing experience, making them approachable and smooth for most users. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM linear switches are described as buttery, creamy, and silky, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke with minimal resistance. While both switches aim to offer a smooth typing experience, the Dareu Sky POM switches may excel in providing an exceptionally seamless and effortless typing sensation due to their buttery and silky characteristics.
Overall, both the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches and the Dareu Sky POM linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the RedBlue switches provide a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound and a mild feel, the Sky POM switches stand out for their premium POM material construction, clacky sound, and exceptionally smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing sensation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, then the RedBlue switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a premium quality switch with a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, then the Sky POM switch could be the perfect fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to consider what aspects are most important to you before making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on what feels best for your typing style and preferences.
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