Dareu Sky POM vs. HMX Twilight
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the HMX Twilight switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky POM and HMX Twilight stand out as excellent linear options, each bringing unique qualities to enhance the typing experience. The Dareu Sky POM switch, made entirely from POM material, is celebrated for its buttery smooth action, low-pitched clack, and creamy feel, all accompanied by a gentle actuation force that caters to users seeking a responsive and satisfying tactile feedback. Its accessibility in terms of price combined with premium quality sets it apart as a standout choice for gamers and typists alike. In contrast, the HMX Twilight switch features an extended travel distance of 3.85mm, which provides a slightly quieter typing experience while still delivering the characteristic clack typical of HMX switches. This makes it an excellent option for those who prefer a more understated sound profile without compromising on performance. Both switches offer compelling reasons to choose them based on individual preferences, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.85 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky POM and the HMX Twilight, we see a distinct differentiation in their top housing compositions. The Sky POM utilizes POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its upper section, which is known for producing a deeper and somewhat muted sound profile. In contrast, the Twilight features a nylon top housing, a classic material recognized for its softer characteristics that contribute to a fuller auditory experience. Both materials, through their unique properties, yield a more rounded sound but take different approaches: the POM provides a more muted tone while nylon tends to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a sound that resonates differently when typing.
Moving to the bottom housing, both the Sky POM and HMX Twilight use nylon, which showcases its classic status in switch construction. This shared material leads to similarities in the auditory outcome when keys are pressed. Nylon's softness aids in sound absorption, delivering a deeper sound profile in both switches. However, while both switches employ the nylon bottom housing, the effect it has when combined with different top housing materials creates distinct experiences, with the Sky POM's muted depth contrasting the fuller sound emanating from the Twilight's nylon.
In summary, while the Sky POM and HMX Twilight differ in their top housing materials—with POM presenting a unique muted character and nylon offering a classic fuller sound—they both capitalize on the benefits of nylon in their lower sections. This consistency in the bottom housing ensures that, despite the differences in upper materials, users will experience depth in sound. The interplay between these materials ultimately determines the nature of the sound profiles produced, allowing both switches to provide gratifying auditory results through a blend of durability and acoustic properties inherent to their respective housing choices.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Sky POM switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it a favorable option for users seeking a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for long sessions at work or during gaming. In contrast, the HMX Twilight requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial tactile feedback from their keyboard. While the Sky POM's bottom out force remains unknown, the Twilight switch has a clearly defined bottom out force of 50 grams, which falls into the light category, suggesting it provides a comfortable typing experience that facilitates quick key presses without bottoming out too heavily. Overall, the Sky POM is the lighter option regarding actuation force, while the Twilight offers a heavier feel with its defined bottom out force, making it essential for users to consider their preferences when choosing between these switches.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the HMX Twilight linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 3.85 mm. This means that the Twilight switch provides a fraction more depth when pressed, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Sky POM's 3.8 mm travel distance offers a quicker response, catering to gamers or typists who favor rapid keystrokes and shorter actuation distances. Therefore, if you prioritize quicker responsiveness, the Sky POM would be the preferable choice, whereas the Twilight is better suited for those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke.
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 Twilight has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Twilight for $3.29.
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 the sound profile, the Dareu Sky POM switch produces a low-pitched, clacky sound, which is characterized by its bass-heavy and mellow tone. This can create a pleasant auditory experience, adding a satisfying element to your typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX Twilight linear switch has a slightly quieter sound due to its extended 3.85mm travel distance, which aims to achieve a similar clack but at a reduced volume. While both switches maintain clacky characteristics, the Sky POM may come across as more pronounced and resonant, while the Twilight caters to those who prefer subtler acoustic feedback.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Sky POM switch stands out with descriptors such as buttery, creamy, and silky. This combination implies that it provides an exceptionally smooth keystroke experience, allowing for effortless and enjoyable typing. The use of POM material complements this smoothness, fostering a sensation akin to gliding your fingers over the keys. On the other hand, details regarding the feel of the HMX Twilight linear switch are currently unknown, leaving a gap in the comparison. However, if the Twilight maintains the typical characteristics expected from HMX switches, it may offer a competitive, smooth typing experience albeit without the specific descriptors provided for the Sky POM.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Sky POM and HMX Twilight linear switches share some similarities in their clacky sound profile, albeit with differing volumes, while the Sky POM's feel is well-defined with its buttery and silky smoothness. The HMX Twilight's characteristics remain less documented, particularly in terms of feel, making it harder to form a complete comparison. Overall, if you're drawn to smooth linear switches with a satisfying sound, the Sky POM is an appealing choice, whereas the Twilight may suit those who prioritize quieter operation while still experiencing some degree of tactile enjoyment.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the HMX Twilight linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you value a smooth and buttery typing experience, the Sky POM is a standout option; its POM construction provides a creamy and silky feel that many users find enjoyable for long typing sessions. Additionally, the low-pitched and clacky sound gives a distinct auditory pleasure, making it ideal for those who prefer a more acoustic feedback while typing. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly firmer feel paired with a quiet preference, the HMX Twilight switch might be more up your alley. With a 50-gram bottom-out force and a travel distance of 3.85mm, the Twilight offers a unique blend of tactile feedback and subtle sound profile, making it suitable for both gaming and office environments where noise level could be a concern. Therefore, assess your typing style—whether you lean towards a soft, smooth experience or prefer a more controlled and quieter option—to make the right choice between these two impressive switches.
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