Dareu Sky POM vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Sky POM and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Dareu Sky POM switch stands out for its premium quality at an affordable price point, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch provides an incredibly smooth typing experience with a high-pitched clack, thanks to its UHWMPE housings. Both switches are categorized as 'buttery,' but the Sky POM is low-pitched and creamy, while the Tangerine is high-pitched and polished. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky POM and TKC Tangerine both offer unique combinations of housing materials that greatly influence the sound profile of the switches. The Sky POM's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing offers a bright and resonant sound signature. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how different housing materials can significantly impact the typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide users with a satisfying and distinct sound feedback.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Sky POM utilizes nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Tangerine features UHWMPE bottom housing which contributes to a bright and resonant sound when typing. This distinction further emphasizes the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch. Whether it's nylon or UHWMPE, each material brings its own unique qualities to enhance the typing experience.
While the Sky POM and TKC Tangerine differ in their choice of housing materials, they both showcase how innovative materials can impact the sound signature of mechanical switches. Whether it's the classic nylon or the newer UHWMPE, each material offers a specific sound profile that caters to different preferences. By understanding the influence of housing materials on switch performance, users can choose a switch that best suits their typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience with their distinct housing material choices.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it is evident that the Sky POM is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams, whereas the Tangerine's actuation force is unspecified. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Tangerine is heavier with 62 grams compared to the Sky POM's unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Sky POM may be preferred by users looking for a smoother typing experience, especially for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the Tangerine offers a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, providing users with options depending on their typing habits and preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Sky POM has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Tangerine, but both fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular in the market. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the Sky POM with its slightly shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Tangerine with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar typing experience with only a minor difference in travel distance.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 per 10 switches.
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 described as having a low-pitched tone, which typically offers a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch is characterized by a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. If you prefer a richer and bassier sound profile, the low-pitched Sky POM switch would be a better option, while those who enjoy a sharper tone may lean towards the high-pitched Tangerine switch. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Sky POM switch is often described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance. This results in a seamless and effortless typing sensation that provides a uniform feel with each key press. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch is noted for its frictionless, buttery, and polished feel, providing an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with fluid key travel. Both switches aim to deliver a luxurious typing experience, with the Sky POM focusing on smoothness and uniformity, while the Tangerine offers a combination of smoothness, reduced friction, and a refined finish.
In conclusion, the Dareu Sky POM and TKC Tangerine linear switches each offer their own unique blend of sound and feel characteristics. If you prefer a lower-pitched sound profile and a buttery-smooth typing experience, the Sky POM switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a higher-pitched sound with a frictionless and polished feel, the Tangerine switch would be more suitable for your typing style. Both switches provide premium quality and are sure to enhance your overall typing experience, with the deciding factor ultimately coming down to your personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, you should consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you prioritize a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force, then the Sky POM may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth feel with a high-pitched sound, and enjoy UHWMPE housings for a more polished typing experience, then the Tangerine switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features and qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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