Dareu Sky POM vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Dareu Sky POM and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Sky POM and PH Studio Yoel are two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Sky POM is praised for its premium quality at an affordable price, characterized by a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. On the other hand, the Yoel provides a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile and a satisfying resonance when keys bottom out. While both switches offer a smooth and creamy typing experience, the Sky POM is described as low-pitched and buttery, while the Yoel is noted for its high-pitched and marbly feel. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
When comparing the Dareu Sky POM and the PH Studio Yoel, we can see clear differences in their housing materials. The Sky POM uses a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Yoel utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, unlike the opaque POM material used in the Sky POM. However, both switches feature a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively muted.
The contrasting qualities of the housing materials used in the Dareu Sky POM and the PH Studio Yoel can significantly impact the overall typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM creates a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Yoel shares similar characteristics with the POM top housing of the Sky POM, producing a unique, deep, and muted sound profile. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a crucial role in determining the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches like the Dareu Sky POM and the PH Studio Yoel can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. The POM top housing in the Sky POM creates a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted, while the polycarbonate top housing in the Yoel produces a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches share a POM bottom housing, contributing to their distinctive sound profiles. Understanding the qualities of different housing materials can help enthusiasts tailor their typing experience to suit their preferences, whether they prefer a deeper, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound.
Weight
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Sky POM is unknown, while the Yoel has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. The difference in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches may result in varying typing experiences. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Sky POM for longer typing sessions, while others may lean towards the heavier actuation force of the Yoel for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch both offer different travel distances. The Sky POM has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Yoel has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Yoel may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Sky POM might provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable for individual users. Both switches offer unique benefits, so trying them out to see which one suits your typing style best may be the best way to determine which one to go with.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is best known for its low-pitched profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch is characterized by a bright and clacky sound, with a resonance that adds to the overall typing experience. While the Sky POM provides a smooth and gentle sound, the Yoel delivers a more pronounced and satisfying auditory feedback, making it a matter of personal preference based on whether you prefer a low-pitched or high-pitched sound profile.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Sky POM and Yoel linear switches offer a creamy and silky typing experience. The Sky POM switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and uniform keystroke sensation. Similarly, the Yoel switch is also considered creamy and silky, ensuring smooth key presses and releases. Both switches offer a refined and polished feel, with reduced friction and effortless key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for the specific type of creaminess and smoothness desired in a switch.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Sky POM and PH Studio Yoel linear switches offer premium quality and smooth typing experiences. While the Sky POM is known for its low-pitched sound profile and buttery feel, the Yoel stands out with its bright and clacky sound and creamy sensation. Whether you prefer a more bass-heavy tone or a sharp sound with resonance, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the creamy and silky feel of both switches ensures a smooth and comfortable typing experience. Overall, newcomers can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance from both the Dareu Sky POM and PH Studio Yoel linear switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Dareu Sky POM linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, there are a few key factors to consider. If you prioritize a clacky sound with a higher-pitched and resonant profile, along with a medium bottom out force, the Yoel switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched sound with a buttery and creamy typing experience, along with a bottom out force that is virtually non-existent, the Sky POM switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing force. Consider these factors carefully to choose the switch that aligns best with your mechanical keyboard preferences.
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