Dareu Holly vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up are the Dareu Holly, a tactile switch, and the Cherry MX Red, a linear switch. The Dareu Holly switch is recognized for its medium 50g actuation force and unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red is a classic Cherry switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Holly switch caters to users seeking a chirpy and clacky typing feel, the MX Red appeals to those looking for a thocky, low-pitched, and textured 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and the Cherry MX Red both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deep and full sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. However, the top housing material sets these two switches apart. The Holly features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the MX Red uses a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile but with a slightly different tone compared to the polycarbonate of the Holly.
While both switches have nylon bottom housings that offer a similar deep and full sound profile, the difference lies in their top housing materials. The Dareu Holly's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more defined typing experience. In comparison, the Cherry MX Red's nylon top housing still provides a deep and full sound but with a slightly softer and more rounded tone. This variation in sound profile between the two switches showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a clear and resonant sound (polycarbonate) or a deeper and fuller tone (nylon), each switch offers a unique auditory feedback for typing enthusiasts to enjoy.
Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Holly and the Cherry MX Red comes down to personal preference in sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and crisper typing experience, the Holly's polycarbonate top housing would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and fuller sound with a slightly softer tone, the MX Red's nylon top housing may be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer a similar deep and full sound profile with their nylon bottom housings, but it is the top housing material that truly sets them apart in terms of sound characteristics. Regardless of your choice, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience tailored to your sound preferences.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cherry MX Red linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces. The Holly switch may appeal to those who prefer a slightly firmer typing experience, while the MX Red switch is lighter and may be preferred by those who type for long periods of time without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches provide a consistent feel with a standard actuation depth that allows for responsive typing. Users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel with either switch. Although the specific design and feel of each switch may vary, the travel distance remains constant at 4mm for both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch.
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 Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a distinct typing experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its deeper sound profile, which is described as thocky and low-pitched, creating a more robust auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, users may enjoy the chirpy and clacky sound of the Holly switch or the deep and satisfying thocky sound of the MX Red switch.
Regarding feel, information about the Dareu Holly switch is not available. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red switch has been described as textured, providing users with a tactile feedback that some may appreciate for its distinct feel during typing. While the feel of the Holly switch remains unknown, the textured nature of the MX Red switch may cater to individuals who enjoy a slightly rougher typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Holly and Cherry MX Red switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. Users looking for a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a chirpy and clacky sound signature may prefer the Holly switch, while those seeking a deeper and more robust auditory experience with a textured feel may lean towards the MX Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as well as the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a balanced and distinctive sound signature with a mix of chirpy and clacky elements, then the Dareu Holly switch with its medium 50g actuation force would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile for a robust typing experience, the Cherry MX Red switch would be more suitable with its responsiveness and satisfying auditory depth. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience.
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