Dareu Sky POM vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Sky POM and the Gateron Type A are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique qualities to suit different preferences. The Sky POM is acclaimed for its premium quality at a reasonable price point, delivering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A stands out for its innovative design in Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," featuring a deeper sound signature and a medium-weight feel. While the Sky POM is categorized as ['Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky'], the Type A is labeled as ['Neutral', 'Subdued']. If you're looking for a smooth and soft typing experience, the Dareu Sky POM might be the way to go. Alternatively, if you prefer a deeper sound profile and a medium-weight feel, the Gateron Type A could be the better choice. 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
50g
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
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
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
The Dareu Sky POM utilizes a POM top housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound profile that is characterized as deeper and relatively muted. In contrast, the Gateron Type A features a nylon top housing that also produces a deeper and fuller sound, but with a duller and rounder quality due to nylon's softer plastic composition. Both switch housings offer a similar outcome in terms of sound depth, but the POM top housing of the Sky POM may provide a slightly different sound experience compared to the Type A's nylon top housing.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both switches share a nylon construction. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The Dareu Sky POM and the Gateron Type A both leverage this property of nylon for a more rounded and muted sound. Although the bottom housing material is the same for both switches, the impact on the overall sound and feel may vary slightly based on the design and construction of each switch.
In terms of functionality and user experience, the qualities of the housing materials in the Dareu Sky POM and the Gateron Type A are divided between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing impacts the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite using different materials for the top housing, both switches aim to provide a deep and pleasing sound profile that enhances the typing experience for users. Whether choosing the Sky POM or the Type A, users can expect a similar outcome in terms of sound depth and overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Type A switch is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. Additionally, the Type A switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM switch is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky POM switch may be more suitable, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch would appeal to individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, as it has a heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Type A linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Sky POM has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Type A. The difference may not be significant but could be noticeable to users sensitive to key travel. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Sky POM with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Gateron Type A with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences when it comes to the feel of keypresses.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a low-pitched and clacky sound that is bass-heavy and mellow, providing a unique auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A linear switch produces a neutral and subdued sound that leans towards the deeper end of the sound spectrum, creating a more moderate and dampened sound profile. Depending on personal preference, users may find the Sky POM to be more distinctive in its sound signature compared to the more subtle sound of the Type A.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Sky POM switch is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky keystroke experience, offering smoothness and fluidity in typing that is effortless and uniform. This creates a luxurious sensation when typing, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is unknown. If the Type A switch offers a similarly smooth and fluid typing experience as the Sky POM, users can expect a comparable level of typing satisfaction with either switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Sky POM and Gateron Type A linear switches each have their own unique characteristics when it comes to sound and feel. The Sky POM excels in providing a low-pitched and clacky sound with a buttery, creamy, and silky typing feel, while the Type A offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile. However, if the Type A switch also provides a smooth and fluid typing experience like the Sky POM, users can expect similar results in terms of typing comfort and satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a premium quality switch with a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force, the Sky POM may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, and factory lubing for a more subdued sound, the Type A could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing experience and what factors matter most to you.
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