Outemu Crystal vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal and Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches offering a smooth typing experience. The Crystal switch is unique for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Snow switch sets itself apart with its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature. The Crystal switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'High-pitched', 'Polished', while the Snow switch is described as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Each switch has its own distinct qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and the Dareu Snow both feature unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and a clear and resonant feel when typing. On the other hand, the Snow utilizes POK for its top housing and nylon for its bottom housing. The POK material in the Snow offers a smooth and clacky typing experience, while the nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile.
While both the Crystal and the Snow have distinct housing materials for their top and bottom housings, they ultimately serve to enhance the overall typing experience in different ways. The polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal creates a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Conversely, the POK top housing of the Snow contributes to a smooth and durable feel, while the nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. These contrasting qualities highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience. The Outemu Crystal's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Dareu Snow's POK and nylon housings offer a smooth and clacky feel. Whether it's the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key or the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, the unique properties of each material contribute to a distinct typing experience for enthusiasts and gamers alike.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that both have similar characteristics in terms of force. The Crystal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Snow switch has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, providing a balanced typing experience for users. The slight difference in force between the two switches may not be significant enough to distinguish a clear winner in terms of weight. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for extended typing sessions or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option. The Crystal switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Snow switch provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the Snow switch for its faster response times due to its shorter travel distance, while others may prefer the Crystal switch for a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, providing a distinct typing experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch produces a deeper thocky sound due to its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem. This results in a rich and satisfying sound when typing on the Snow switch, making it a standout in terms of acoustic feedback. Keep in mind, though, that the actual sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard body and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its polished finish, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a bouncy feel with a spring-like feedback sensation, giving keys a lively rebound when pressed. This bounciness adds to the overall tactile experience of typing on the Snow switch, making it enjoyable and engaging.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal and Dareu Snow linear switches offer different sound and feel characteristics, they both provide a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer the chirpy and high-pitched sound of the Crystal switch or the deep thocky sound of the Snow switch, both switches are sure to satisfy your preferences. Additionally, the polished feel of the Crystal switch and the bouncy feel of the Snow switch add to the overall tactile feedback when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, if you are looking for a linear switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and a unique typing experience, the Outemu Crystal linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly deeper sound signature and innovative materials, the Dareu Snow linear switch could be the one to go for. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and overall typing feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Choose wisely based on what aspects are most important to you in your typing experience.
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