Dareu Holly vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Holly and TKC Kiwi are both tactile mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Dareu Holly switch stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements. This switch caters to users looking for a balanced and unique typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switches are designed to enhance typing with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. These switches offer a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and come lightly factory lubed for a smooth typing experience right out of the box. While both switches have their strengths, the Dareu Holly appeals to those seeking a unique sound experience while the TKC Kiwi excels in providing a satisfying tactile bump. 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and TKC Kiwi both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Holly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound. This material is stiffer, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the Kiwi boasts a UHWMPE top housing, providing a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Holly may be more suitable for those looking for a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi may be preferred by those seeking a bright and resonant typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, the Holly features a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Kiwi utilizes a UHWMPE bottom housing, offering a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Both materials bring unique qualities to the switches, with nylon providing a deeper sound experience and UHWMPE creating a bright and resonant typing feel. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards the Holly for a deeper and fuller sound, or the Kiwi for a bright and resonant typing experience.
Although the Dareu Holly and TKC Kiwi feature different housing materials, they both offer a unique typing experience with their top and bottom housing combinations. While the Holly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing delivers a bright and resonant typing experience. Similarly, the Holly's nylon bottom housing produces a deep and full sound, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing offers a bright and resonant typing feel. Whether one prefers a sharper, crisper sound or a bright, resonant typing experience, both the Dareu Holly and TKC Kiwi provide a variety of options for users seeking different sound profiles in their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it is evident that the Holly requires a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Kiwi's 43 grams. The Holly, however, lacks information on its bottom out force, while the Kiwi has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Kiwi for its lower actuation force, which can lead to longer typing sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may appreciate the higher actuation force of the Holly, even though its bottom out force is unknown. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly and the TKC Kiwi tactile switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is important as it determines how far you need to press the key to actuate it. In this case, both switches offer the same amount of travel, ensuring that you will get similar results in terms of key feel and feedback. Whether you choose the Holly or the Kiwi, you can expect a consistent and satisfying typing experience with a tactile bump to enhance your overall typing performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky elements, providing users with a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch delivers a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. While the Holly has a more distinct sound signature, the Kiwi provides a more immersive typing experience with its low-pitched tones. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or experienced typists, and regardless of their typing environment.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Holly switch's tactile feel is not specified in the provided information. In contrast, the TKC Kiwi switch is described as having a stepped and accented tactile feel. This means that the Kiwi switch has a two-stage tactile response, providing a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This tactile profile adds to the overall comfort and satisfaction of typing on the TKC Kiwi switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Holly and TKC Kiwi tactile switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. While the Holly switch features a unique sound signature with chirpy and clacky elements, the Kiwi switch provides a snappy sound profile with low-pitched tones. When it comes to feel, the Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience that is smooth and refined due to its polished finish. Both switches cater to users looking for a satisfying typing experience, with the Holly standing out for its sound characteristics and the Kiwi excelling in tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, consider the following guidelines: If you are someone who appreciates a unique sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements for a balanced typing experience, then the Holly switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, accompanied by a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and factory lubrication for a smooth typing experience, then the Kiwi switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound characteristics or typing feel in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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