Dareu Sky POM vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Sky POM and Dareu Sky V4 mechanical keyboard switches, one can see the distinct qualities that set them apart. The Sky POM, a linear switch, is praised for its premium quality and affordability, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the Sky V4, also a linear switch, stands out with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing, offering a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear action for a rich typing experience. While the POM switch is characterized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', the V4 switch is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy'. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky POM and the Dareu Sky V4, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics. The Sky POM utilizes POM for the top housing, which creates a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively muted. In contrast, the Sky V4 employs POK material for the top housing, known for its smoothness and durability. The POK material contributes to creating smooth, clacky, and durable switches, with wear resistance far surpassing that of POM.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Sky POM and the Sky V4 utilize nylon. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows for sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite using the same material for the bottom housing, the switches may still offer unique typing experiences due to the difference in top housing materials between the two models.
In terms of overall impact on the switch's sound and feel, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. While the Dareu Sky POM and Dareu Sky V4 may differ in their choice of top housing material, both models offer a combination of qualities that contribute to a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between POM and POK materials for the top housing may come down to personal preference for sound profile and smoothness.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky POM linear switch to the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, it's evident that the actuation and bottom out forces vary between the two. The Sky POM has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Sky V4's slightly heavier 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Sky POM's force is unknown while the Sky V4 requires 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky POM would be a suitable choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Conversely, the Sky V4's slightly heavier actuation force may appeal to users seeking a more substantial and responsive typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force requirements.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, with the Sky V4 being slightly shorter than the Sky POM. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Sky V4, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Sky POM. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
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 Dareu Sky V4 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 V4 for $4.76.
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 Dareu Sky POM switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, creating a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch produces a thocky and rich sound when pressed, thanks to its innovative use of POK material in the top housing. The Sky V4's sound signature is deeper and complements its smooth linear action, providing a rewarding typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Sky POM leaning towards a lower pitch while the Sky V4 delivers a thocky and neutral sound.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. The seamless and effortless keystroke sensation of the POM switch enhances the overall typing feel, offering a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that gives keys a lively bounce when pressed. While the Sky POM focuses on delivering a buttery and silky typing experience, the Sky V4 emphasizes a bouncy and responsive feel, catering to typists who enjoy a more tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the Dareu Sky POM and Sky V4 switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sky POM boasts a clacky and low-pitched sound profile with a buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel, ideal for those seeking a smooth and fluid typing experience. On the other hand, the Sky V4 shines with its thocky and neutral sound signature paired with a bouncy feel, catering to typists who prefer a deep and rich sound with a spring-like feedback sensation. While each switch offers its unique characteristics, typists can expect a premium typing experience with either switch, depending on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when looking to choose between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, you should consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, then the Sky POM may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a switch with a deeper sound signature, a smooth linear action, and a medium-light bottom out force, then the Sky V4 could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and actuation force, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
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