Dareu Sky POM vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Sky POM and the Durock White Lotus present compelling options for different preferences. The Dareu Sky POM, a linear switch, is characterized by its premium quality at an accessible price point, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus, a tactile switch, boasts a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making it ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. While the Sky POM is 'buttery', 'low-pitched', 'creamy', and 'silky', the White Lotus is 'easy-to-press', 'low-pitched', 'mild', 'neutral', and 'subtle'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Sky POM and Durock White Lotus both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Sky POM utilizes POM for the top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. In comparison, the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE blend for its top housing, which provides a unique and premium feel. While both switches have different top housing materials, they both aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Both switches also feature a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This quality is present in both the Sky POM and White Lotus switches, contributing to their overall typing experience. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing ensures that users can enjoy a similar sound profile when typing on either switch.
When it comes to the overall feel of the switch, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material impacts the sound when releasing a key. This means that while the Dareu Sky POM and Durock White Lotus may have different top housing materials, the qualities of their nylon bottom housing will still be evident in the typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a unique and enjoyable typing experience, with their housing materials contributing to their individual sound profiles.
Weight
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Durock White Lotus tactile switch's actuation force of 46 grams, making the Sky POM easier to press initially. However, the White Lotus has a bottom out force of 56 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when compared to the Sky POM, where the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Sky POM for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more solid and tactile feel may lean towards the White Lotus for a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making it slightly shorter than the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the realm of shorter travel distances, the Sky POM offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the White Lotus provides a bit more depth to each keystroke, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience each individual is looking for.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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, both the Dareu Sky POM and Durock White Lotus switches are described as having low-pitched tones, providing a deep and mellow sound profile that is not too sharp or jarring. This similarity means that regardless of your choice between the two switches, you can expect a pleasing auditory experience while typing. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced can also be influenced by the keyboard build, keycaps, and typing style.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Sky POM is praised for its buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, giving users a smooth and effortless keystroke that feels seamless and luxurious. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches are known for being easy-to-press, mild, and subtle, offering gentle resistance and a low-impact typing feel that is comfortable and responsive. If you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a slight resistance, the Durock White Lotus may be the better choice for you.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Sky POM and Durock White Lotus switches excel in different aspects. The Sky POM is renowned for its clacky sound and buttery feel, while the White Lotus stands out with its delicate tactility and easy-to-press nature. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whichever switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that elevates your overall typing enjoyment.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a premium, smooth typing experience with a gentle actuation force and a clacky sound, opt for the Sky POM switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile feedback that is balanced for extended typing sessions, along with the added bonus of vibrant RGB lighting effects, the White Lotus switch is the way to go. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so select based on your personal preference and typing needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on whether you prioritize smooth linear switches or light tactile switches in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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