Dareu Sky POM vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Sky POM and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, there are distinct differences that may sway your decision. The Sky POM is praised for its premium quality at an affordable price, boasting a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the Snow switch offers an innovative use of POK material for a deeper sound signature while typing. The Sky POM is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', whereas the Snow switch is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy'. Each switch offers unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, but 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky POM and Dareu Snow both offer unique housing materials for switches, with the Sky POM featuring a POM top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Snow utilizes a POK top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The POM top housing of the Sky POM creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the POK top housing of the Snow provides a smooth and clacky sound, with exceptional durability and wear resistance. Both switches offer different sound profiles and levels of durability based on their housing materials.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Dareu Sky POM and Dareu Snow utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating deep and full sound profiles. Nylon is softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both switches will likely offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. However, differences in the top housing material will still impact the overall sound and feel of each switch.
Overall, while the Dareu Sky POM and Dareu Snow share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, the differing top housing materials – POM for the Sky POM and POK for the Snow – create distinct sound profiles and levels of durability. The POM top housing of the Sky POM offers a more muted sound, while the POK top housing of the Snow provides a smoother and clackier sound with superior wear resistance. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that the Sky POM is lighter in terms of actuation force at 40 grams compared to the Snow's 50 grams. The bottom out force for the Sky POM is unknown, while the Snow has a bottom out force of 60 grams, indicating it is heavier in this aspect. Those who prefer a light typing experience may find the Sky POM more suitable, as it requires less force to actuate a keystroke. In contrast, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Snow with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing comfort and experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that the Snow has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Sky POM's 3.8 mm travel distance. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, the slight difference in travel distance may impact the overall feel of typing or gaming experience. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the Snow switch, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Sky POM switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar feel in terms of travel distance, providing users with a satisfying typing or gaming 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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is known for its low-pitched tone, offering a bass-heavy and mellow sound profile that is quite distinctive. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as thocky, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound that resonates as you type. Additionally, the Snow switch is also noted for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. Overall, while the Sky POM switch leans towards a lower pitch, the Snow switch offers a more diverse sound experience depending on personal preference, board, and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Sky POM switch is often described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. On the contrary, the Dareu Snow switch is noted for its bouncy feel, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives a lively rebound when keys are pressed. Both switches offer a unique tactile experience, with the Sky POM focusing on smoothness and uniformity, while the Snow provides a more dynamic and responsive typing feel. It ultimately comes down to individual preference in terms of key feel and feedback.
In conclusion, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch each offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sky POM excels in delivering a low-pitched sound with a buttery, creamy, and silky feel, providing a consistent and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out with its thocky sound profile and bouncy tactile feedback, offering a more dynamic and lively typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, as both switches are designed to provide a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Dareu Sky POM if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a clacky sound profile, and a smooth typing experience with a gentle actuation force. On the other hand, go for the Dareu Snow if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a deeper sound signature, and a bouncy feel with elastic feedback. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel to enhance your overall typing experience.
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