Gateron Silent Ink Black vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Dareu Sky POM mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, some key differences become apparent. The Silent Ink Black is renowned for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where a minimal amount of sound is preferred. With a cushion-like bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback, this switch falls under the categories of 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its premium quality offered at a more affordable price point. Crafted entirely from POM material, this switch delivers a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', the Sky POM switch is a popular choice for those seeking a satisfying typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Dareu Sky POM, we can see that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a high-pitched and clacky sound, while the Sky POM's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can cater to different preferences, with the Silent Ink Black offering a more sharp and pointed sound, and the Sky POM providing a fuller and rounder sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches use different materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing creates a thin and higher-pitched sound, complementing the top housing's characteristics. On the other hand, the Sky POM's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, offering a unique typing experience. The difference in bottom housing materials allows for a variety of sound profiles, appealing to a wide range of keyboard enthusiasts.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gateron Silent Ink Black and the Dareu Sky POM offer distinct sound profiles, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether it be the clacky sound of the Silent Ink Black's INK blend top housing or the deeper sound of the Sky POM's POM housing, both switches deliver on their promise of unique and pleasing sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience each individual desires.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Ink Black has a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Sky POM has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. This makes the Sky POM ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and longer typing sessions. However, those seeking a more robust typing feel may lean towards the Silent Ink Black due to its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Silent Ink Black offers a more traditional travel distance that may feel more familiar to users, while the Sky POM provides a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Sky POM, but those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may opt for the Silent Ink Black. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so regardless of which one you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of performance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
When comparing the sound of the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, the Silent Ink Black offers a muted typing experience that is softer and quieter compared to the clacky low-pitched sound of the Sky POM. If you're looking for a switch that minimizes noise, the Silent Ink Black would be the better choice. Moving on to feel, the Gateron Silent Ink Black provides a silky and polished typing experience, enhancing smoothness and reducing friction. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM offers a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, ensuring a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference. If you prefer a quieter typing experience with a smooth feel, go for the Gateron Silent Ink Black. However, if you prioritize a premium quality switch with a buttery and creamy typing sensation, the Dareu Sky POM would be the better option. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that will surely elevate your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, you should consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you need a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ink Black would be the better choice with its cushioned bottom-out feel and muted sound profile. On the other hand, if you value a more budget-friendly option with a clacky sound and smooth typing experience, the Sky POM switch made of POM material might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and budget constraints.
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