Dareu Holly vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and KTT Laurel stand out as popular choices, each offering unique features to suit different preferences. The Holly, a tactile switch, is known for its medium 50g actuation force and distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel, a linear switch, offers a medium-light actuation force, full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design for a responsive and comfortable typing feel. Additionally, the Laurel boasts a subtly low-pitched sound profile. While the Holly caters to users looking for a mix of chirpy and clacky typing sounds, the Laurel is perfect for those seeking a snappy and low-pitched sound 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
50g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and the KTT Laurel both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinctive sound profiles. The Holly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, ideal for those seeking a more crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Laurel's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound, catering to a different preference. While both materials offer their own advantages, such as the translucency of polycarbonate for RGB lighting in the Holly and the pleasing sound of POM in the Laurel, they ultimately provide contrasting auditory experiences.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Holly's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those looking for a more muted typing experience. Similarly, the Laurel's POM bottom housing also offers a deep and muted sound profile, aligning with the qualities of its top housing material. Despite coming from different manufacturers, both switches deliver a similar auditory experience through their respective bottom housing materials, showcasing the impact housing materials can have on sound output.
When comparing the overall typing experience of the Dareu Holly and the KTT Laurel, it becomes evident that the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While the Holly's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, the Laurel's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Holly and the POM bottom housing of the Laurel both contribute to a fuller and rounder sound, enhancing the overall typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating unique sound profiles and catering to diverse preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Laurel linear switch's 43 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Laurel is 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Holly is unknown. In terms of weight, the Laurel is lighter with a lower actuation force, making it easier for extended typing sessions or gaming. The Holly, on the other hand, provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher actuation force. Both switches have their strengths, with the Holly offering a stronger push feel and the Laurel being a lighter option for easier typing.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Laurel switch is shorter compared to the Holly switch. The Holly switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressed. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Laurel switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming may lean towards the Holly switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing or gaming style.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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
The Holly tactile switch from Dareu offers a unique and balanced typing experience with a combination of chirpy and clacky sounds. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel linear switch provides a more subtly low-pitched sound profile. When it comes to feel, the information available about the Holly switch is unknown, but the Laurel switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a distinctive sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly tactile switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more low-pitched sound and a snappy feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch would be the way to go. Keep in mind that the ultimate typing experience with either switch will also depend on factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps, and personal preference. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Holly tactile switch or the KTT Laurel linear switch, you should opt for the Holly if you are looking for a unique typing experience with a medium 50g actuation force and a sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements. This switch is ideal for users seeking a balanced and distinctive sound while typing. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a bottom out force of 50g and a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel is the way to go. Its full POM housing, short travel, and snappy feel make it a great choice for those who value responsiveness and comfort in their typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Holly and Laurel switches will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and actuation force.
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