Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky POM, both of which are linear switches. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is praised for its innovative design that combines a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM stands out for its premium quality made entirely from POM material, offering exceptional smoothness and a gentle actuation force at a more accessible price point. While the Semi-Silent Linear is described as 'Subdued', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Buttery', and 'Polished', the Sky POM is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them ideal choices for different 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
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky POM, one key difference lies in the top housing. The Semi-Silent Linear features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Sky POM utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience, catering to different preferences. However, both switches offer the advantage of using nylon for the bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition.
Furthermore, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear not only affects the sound profile but also allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency. This aesthetic feature may be appealing to users looking for a visually striking switch. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Sky POM provides a unique sound experience, adding a different dimension to the typing feel. Despite these differences, both switches benefit from the nylon bottom housing, which enhances the overall sound quality by absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound.
Overall, the choice between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky POM will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and aesthetics. While the Semi-Silent Linear offers a crisper and higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Sky POM provides a deeper and more muted sound with its POM top housing. However, both switches share the benefit of nylon bottom housing, ensuring a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether prioritizing sound quality, aesthetics, or typing feel, users can find a suitable option based on their preferences and priorities.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that the Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Sky POM has an actuation force of 40 grams, with the bottom out force unknown. This makes the Semi-Silent Linear heavier in terms of bottom out force, but lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Sky POM. The actuation force of the Sky POM is lower than that of the Semi-Silent Linear, which could result in a lighter typing experience. However, the heavier bottom out force of the Semi-Silent Linear may provide a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is slightly shorter than the Dareu Sky POM switch with a travel distance of 3.8 mm. While the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, the Semi-Silent Linear offers a slightly shorter travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular among gamers for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a bit more depth and feedback in their keystrokes, the Dareu Sky POM switch may be the preferred option due to its slightly longer travel distance. 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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is known for its subdued and neutral sound profile, offering a dampened yet subtle sound signature that suits various environments. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch features a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound experience. When it comes to feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that ensures seamless key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and gentle typing sensation that feels like effortlessly gliding your fingers across the keys. Overall, while both switches excel in providing a smooth typing experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch leans towards a more subdued sound profile with a neutral feel, while the Dareu Sky POM switch brings a low-pitched tone and a creamy, silky typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide an enjoyable typing experience with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Dareu Sky POM linear switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound and a medium bottom out force, the Semi-Silent Linear is the way to go. It offers a subdued sound profile and a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing feel. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch crafted from POM material that offers a premium quality experience with a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, the Sky POM is the better choice. It provides a low-pitched sound profile and a buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and force, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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