Dareu Sky POM vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Sky POM and the Gateron Type L mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Sky POM switch is renowned for its premium quality at an affordable price, boasting a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," stands out for its lightness, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and a sound signature that veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While the Sky POM is described as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', the Type L is characterized as 'Neutral', 'Subdued', 'Feathery', and 'Easy-to-press'. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Sky POM and the Gateron Type L, one can see that both switches utilize nylon as a key component in their top housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. This means that in terms of sound, both switches offer a similar experience with a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to switches made from harder plastics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Dareu Sky POM utilizes POM while the Gateron Type L also uses nylon. POM is known for creating a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side but relatively more muted. This contrasts with nylon's ability to elicit a fuller sound profile, indicating that the Dareu Sky POM may offer a slightly different sound experience compared to the Gateron Type L due to the differences in their bottom housing materials.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Sky POM and the Gateron Type L can result in subtle variations in sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches feature nylon in their top housing, the use of POM in the Sky POM's bottom housing may give it a slightly different sound and feel compared to the Type L. Despite these variations, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience with deep and muted sound profiles that are characteristic of switches made with softer plastics like nylon.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky POM linear switch to the Gateron Type L linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are noticeable differences. The Sky POM has a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Type L's 38 grams, making it slightly heavier to press down initially. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Type L requires 45 grams of force while the Sky POM's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Type L switch is lighter in terms of bottoming out, providing a smoother typing experience with less resistance. In general, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Gateron Type L switch for prolonged typing sessions, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Dareu Sky POM switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the Gateron Type L linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to everyone, but for those who are more sensitive to keypress depth, it can make a difference in typing experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Dareu Sky POM switch with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing may prefer the Gateron Type L switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the slight variation in travel distance allows users to choose based on their personal preference for keypress depth.
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 L 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
The Dareu Sky POM switch is distinguished by its low-pitched and clacky sound, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that may appeal to users seeking a distinct auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, with a dampened sound that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Both switches deliver unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preferences and setup.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Sky POM is praised for its buttery, creamy, and silky keystroke experience, offering a smooth and fluid typing sensation that effortlessly glides across the keys. In comparison, the Gateron Type L switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, with a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing experience for extended use. These different tactile qualities cater to users with varying preferences for the typing feel, ranging from buttery smoothness to light and effortless key presses.
In conclusion, the Dareu Sky POM and Gateron Type L switches each bring a unique combination of sound and feel qualities to the table, catering to different preferences and typing styles. While the Sky POM excels in providing a low-pitched and clacky sound with a buttery typing feel, the Type L offers a more neutral and subdued sound with a feathery and easy-to-press tactile experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience that is sure to enhance your overall keyboard usage.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the following guidelines: Choose the Dareu Sky POM if you prefer a switch with a clacky sound, exceptionally smooth keystrokes, and a gentle actuation force. This switch is best suited for those looking for a buttery, creamy, or silky typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Gateron Type L if you prefer a switch with a light 45g bottom out force and a sound signature that veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. This switch is ideal for those seeking a feathery or easy-to-press typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force.
Mentioned in this article
