Dareu Holly vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and the KTT MoonRosa stand out as top choices, each offering unique features that cater to 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 typing experience. On the other hand, the MoonRosa, a linear switch, boasts an all-POM construction that delivers a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While the Holly offers a more tactile and distinct typing experience, the MoonRosa provides a smoother and quieter keystroke. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and KTT MoonRosa both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Holly uses a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound compared to the MoonRosa's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches offer a translucent top housing that is beneficial for RGB lighting effects. In terms of bottom housing, the Holly utilizes a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the MoonRosa's POM bottom housing results in a similarly deep and muted sound.
While the Dareu Holly and KTT MoonRosa have different top and bottom housing materials, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Holly offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound, whereas the POM top housing of the MoonRosa produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, both switches feature a bottom housing material that contributes to a fuller and rounder sound profile. Despite the differences in materials, both switches prioritize creating a pleasant typing experience for users.
The impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the Dareu Holly and KTT MoonRosa switches varies depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or letting go. The nylon bottom housing of the Holly and the POM bottom housing of the MoonRosa influence the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deeper and fuller typing experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Holly and the POM top housing of the MoonRosa have more of an impact on the sound when letting go of a key, with the Holly offering a sharper sound and the MoonRosa a deeper, more muted sound. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize quality sound profiles for users.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the MoonRosa has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the bottom out force of the Holly switch is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the MoonRosa switch, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. Conversely, the Holly switch may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a higher actuation force. Ultimately, when comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches, it is important to consider personal preferences for typing feel and comfort.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Holly offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the MoonRosa. This can result in a more tactile feel for users who prefer a bit more resistance in their switches. On the other hand, the MoonRosa's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, particularly gamers who prioritize quick keystrokes. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, with the Holly being the longer option and the MoonRosa being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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 Dareu Holly tactile switch provides a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a distinctive typing experience that stands out. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a low-pitched tone that adds a sense of mellowness to the typing experience. While the Holly switch may appeal to users looking for a more lively and percussive sound, the MoonRosa switch caters to those who prefer a quieter and more relaxed typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly switch does not have specific descriptors provided, so its tactile feedback and typing experience are not outlined here. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch is described as providing a mild and easy-to-press typing experience. These qualities make the MoonRosa switch approachable and comfortable for most users, offering a gentle resistance and low-impact feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a buttery smooth typing experience and a more neutral sound profile, the KTT MoonRosa switch would be a suitable option. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you are someone who values a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, then the Dareu Holly switch with its medium 50g actuation force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature and a light actuation force of 45 grams, the KTT MoonRosa switch may be more suitable. Consider the sound and feel descriptions provided for each switch to determine which one aligns more with your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you during your typing sessions.
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