Dareu Sky POM vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Sky POM and the HMX Sunset Gleam offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sky POM, made entirely from POM material, is celebrated for its premium quality, accessible price point, and a sound profile that can be described as clacky and creamy. Its buttery smoothness and gentle actuation force make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a delicate touch with their typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Sunset Gleam, often referred to as the Duck Duck switch, is distinguished by its exceptional blend of materials that produce a subtle top-out and satisfying clack, paired with the excellent factory lubrication that HMX is renowned for. While both switches belong to the linear category, the Sky POM leans towards a softer, more refined feel, whereas the Sunset Gleam strikes a balance between sound and responsiveness. Ultimately, each switch has its charm and strengths, appealing to different users across the spectrum of typing and gaming. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky POM and the HMX Sunset Gleam feature distinct top housing materials that significantly influence their sound profiles. The Sky POM utilizes a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a unique sound characterized by deeper and more muted tones. This material's ability to create softer sounds is in contrast to the Sunset Gleam's use of polycarbonate, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, it enhances resonance, making it particularly effective in delivering clarity, especially in environments where RGB lighting is used. While both materials contribute to the overall acoustic experience, their distinct properties create two fundamentally different sound signatures that cater to varying preferences among users.
When examining the bottom housing of these switches, it’s interesting to note that both the Sky POM and the Sunset Gleam utilize nylon, a classic and versatile material. Nylon is appreciated for its ability to absorb sound, creating a fuller and deeper auditory profile. This shared bottom housing material means that regardless of the different top housing materials, users will experience a similar depth and fullness in sound when typing. The softness of nylon allows for a muted bottom-out sound, contributing to a richer typing experience. Thus, even with the variance in their top housings, both switches maintain a baseline of sound quality that is influenced by the nylon used in their construction.
Ultimately, the combination of different materials in both the top and bottom housing of the Dareu Sky POM and the HMX Sunset Gleam results in unique auditory experiences for users. The Sky POM's POM top housing creates a smoother, muted sound profile, complemented by the fuller tones from its nylon bottom housing. Meanwhile, the HMX Sunset Gleam benefits from its brighter polycarbonate top housing, paired with the same nylon bottom housing, which allows for a resonant sound experience that may be more appealing to those seeking a sharper auditory feedback. The interaction between the different materials ensures that each switch has a unique voice, but the consistent use of nylon in the bottom housing unifies their performance, allowing enthusiasts to enjoy a warm and textured sound regardless of their top housing choice.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Sky POM switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Sunset Gleam's 42 grams, making it marginally easier to press and potentially more comfortable for extended typing sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Sky POM is unspecified, while the Sunset Gleam has a defined bottom out force of 48 grams. This means that the Sunset Gleam requires firmer pressure for full keystrokes, catering to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. As such, while the Sky POM may appeal to those looking for a lighter switch, the Sunset Gleam offers a heavier force that may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a firmer feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for weight and force feedback during use.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, it is clear that the Sky POM has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it the longer option, while the Sunset Gleam measures at 3.5 mm, thus being the shorter switch. With a traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm being common, both switches fall within a relatively shallow range that may appeal to users looking for quicker response times. However, the Sky POM's additional 0.3 mm provides a more substantial feel that some users may prefer for its deeper engagement. Ultimately, the selection between these switches will depend on whether one values the responsiveness of a shorter switch or the more substantial feedback of a longer one.
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 HMX Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 Dareu Sky POM switch is characterized by its low-pitched sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that makes for a more subdued auditory experience. This depth of sound can contribute to a solid feel when typing, as it offers feedback without being overly jarring or distracting. The HMX Sunset Gleam, on the other hand, is known for its subtle top-out and satisfying clack, combining a clear yet gentle auditory feedback that strikes a balance between firmness and finesse. While both switches provide distinct auditory experiences, the Sky POM offers a richer, deeper sound profile compared to the slightly sharper output of the Sunset Gleam.
When it comes to feel, the Sky POM switch excels with descriptors like buttery, creamy, and silky, indicating an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This translates to a typing sensation that feels almost effortless, enhancing the overall comfort during prolonged use. The factory lube enhances this smoothness, allowing for a seamless transition between keystrokes. The Sunset Gleam's feel is not defined in the available information, but given its reputation and sound profile, it can be anticipated to offer a delightful typing experience. Should it feature a similar level of care in construction and lubrication, one might expect an appealing tactile sensation as well.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Sky POM and HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches share the common ground of being designed for smooth operation and a satisfying auditory feedback, they diverge in specific qualities of sound and feel. The Sky POM's low-pitched, clacky sound and luxurious glide create a unique experience that is markedly different from the Sunset Gleam's potentially more subtle or crisp auditory cues. For those considering one of these switches, understanding these distinctions can help guide the choice based on personal preference, particularly with regard to sound and typing sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel. If you cherish a buttery, creamy, and silky typing sensation, along with a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile, the Sky POM might be the ideal choice for you. Its smoothness and accessible pricing make it a great option for both casual typing and gaming experiences, particularly if you prefer a quieter environment. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly more tactile feedback and a gentle clack sound while still keeping the linear feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam, with its subtle top-out and light 48-gram actuation force, could be the better fit. This switch excels in providing a satisfying auditory experience thanks to its well-engineered materials and excellent factory lubrication. Ultimately, consider what aspects are most important to you—whether it's the smoothness and sound of the Sky POM or the balanced feedback of the Sunset Gleam—and select the switch that best aligns with your typing style and preferences for the ultimate mechanical keyboard experience.
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