Dareu Sky POM vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Sky POM and the Gazzew U4 offer distinct experiences for users. The Sky POM is a linear switch, known for its clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is a tactile switch, celebrated for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation. While the Sky POM is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', 'Silky', the U4 falls into the categories of 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', 'Sharp'. At first glance, it may seem like a simple choice between linear and tactile switches; 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
45g
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
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky POM and the Gazzew U4 both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Sky POM's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound compared to the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, which delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. This difference in sound profile can affect the overall typing experience, with the Sky POM offering a quieter and more subdued typing sound while the U4 provides a more vibrant and deep typing sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Sky POM features a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. Both materials are relatively softer plastics that absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housings may offer a slightly different sound and feel compared to switches with Gazzew blend bottom housings.
While the housing materials of the Dareu Sky POM and the Gazzew U4 may differ in terms of their top and bottom housing materials, the overall sound profiles of the two switches may still be quite similar. This is because the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, whether you prefer the Sky POM or the Gazzew U4 will come down to personal preference in terms of the sound profile and typing experience that each switch offers.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that the U4 has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the U4 requires 62 grams, while the Sky POM's bottom out force remains unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Sky POM due to its lower actuation force, while those seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the U4 with its heavier forces. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with one providing a lighter touch and the other offering a more robust keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, we can see that the Sky POM has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the U4's 3.6 mm. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the slight difference may be noticeable to some users. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the Sky POM for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, those looking for a quicker response time may prefer the U4 with its slightly shorter travel distance. Overall, both switches offer a similar experience with their relatively short travel distances, but the Sky POM may provide a bit more depth to the keystroke compared to the U4.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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 switch offers a low-pitched and clacky sound profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch produces a muted and whisper-quiet sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches have their unique sound characteristics, with the Sky POM being more on the clacky side while the U4 is known for its whisper-quiet operation. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Sky POM switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with a seamless and uniform sensation. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its sharp and intense tactile bump, offering a distinctive and crisp feedback with each keypress. The Sky POM switch focuses on a silky smooth typing experience, while the U4 prioritizes a sharp and pronounced tactile feedback. Users who prefer a buttery and uniform typing feel may opt for the Sky POM, while those seeking a sharp and intense tactile bump may lean towards the Gazzew U4.
In conclusion, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences. While the Sky POM excels in providing a low-pitched and clacky sound profile with a buttery and silky smooth typing experience, the Gazzew U4 stands out for its muted and whisper-quiet operation coupled with a sharp and intense tactile bump. Both switches have their strengths, and choosing between them ultimately depends on the individual's preference for sound and feel. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a premium typing experience tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Sky POM linear switch or the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, your decision may ultimately come down to your personal preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a smooth and clacky feel with a low-pitched sound, the Sky POM switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp and tactile bump with a muted, whisper-quiet sound profile, the Gazzew U4 switch could be more to your liking. Consider your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feedback when making your decision between these two unique switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Sky POM and U4 switches will depend on what you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard typing experience.
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