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Gateron Aliaz vs. Dareu Snow

An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Snow, a linear switch. The Aliaz switch is ideal for quiet environments, such as offices, due to its silent design and medium-heavy weight that provides a satisfying feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature while typing. While the Aliaz switch offers a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise, the Snow switch provides a smoother and quieter typing experience. 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

60g

Actuation force

50g

Bottom-out force

75g

Bottom-out force

60g

Pre-travel

2.00 mm

Pre-travel

1.30 mm

Total travel

4.00 mm

Total travel

3.30 mm

Factory lubed

No

Factory lubed

Yes

Stem construction

Standard

Stem construction

Partial box

Stem material

POM

Stem material

POM

Top housing material

Polycarbonate

Top housing material

POK

Bottom housing material

Polycarbonate

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

Stainless steel

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Dareu Snow, one can see a clear difference in their top housing materials. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Snow utilizes a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability. While the Aliaz's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those interested in RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Snow's POK top housing contributes to a smoother and clackier typing experience.

Moving on to the bottom housing materials of the two switches, another distinct contrast can be observed. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing, much like its top housing, contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Snow boasts a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The nylon bottom housing of the Snow absorbs more sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Aliaz, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch.

Despite their differences, both the Gateron Aliaz and Dareu Snow showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of a switch. The qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in different aspects of typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. Whether opting for the sharper, clearer sound of the Aliaz with its polycarbonate housing or the smoother, clackier typing experience of the Snow with its POK and nylon housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.

Weight

The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch. The Aliaz requires 60 grams to actuate and 75 grams to bottom out, while the Snow only needs 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This makes the Snow the lighter option of the two switches, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Aliaz's heavier forces may appeal to users who want a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm, making it the longer option compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch with a travel distance of 3.3mm. The Aliaz offers a traditional travel distance, while the Snow provides a slightly shorter distance. Gamers may prefer the Snow for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Aliaz. Both switches offer unique travel distances that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual typing or gaming preferences for speed and depth in key presses.

Price comparison

Which switch is more bang for your buck?

The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.

The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.

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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted typing experience, perfect for quiet environments like an office setting. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound profile due to its unique POK material construction. Both switches offer different sound signatures, catering to individual preferences. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's build and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel, the Aliaz switch is known for its silky and polished typing experience, offering smooth keypresses with minimal resistance. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch provides a bouncy sensation, giving keys a spring-like feedback. While the Aliaz focuses on smoothness and refined finishes, the Snow switch offers a more lively and elastic feel to typing. Ultimately, the feel of a switch is a personal preference and can greatly impact your typing experience.

In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz provides a medium-heavy weight with a muted and silky typing experience, ideal for those looking for a substantial feel without the noise. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out with its thocky sound signature and bouncy feel, appealing to those seeking a deeper sound and spring-like feedback. Consider your preferences for sound and feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience. Similar results can be achieved with both switches, depending on your preferences and the overall setup of your mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it all depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you value a substantial feel and more pronounced typing feedback in a quiet environment like the office, the Aliaz would be the ideal choice with its medium-heavy weight and muted sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a deeper sound signature and a bouncy feel that provides a spring-like feedback, the Snow switch would be a great option with its innovative use of POK material. Ultimately, consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the decision that best suits your typing style and environment.

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