Dareu Holly vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch. The Dareu Holly switch, known for its medium 50g actuation force, offers a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience for users. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is renowned for its rapid response and linear action, featuring low spring resistance for instant triggers, making it ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed during competitive gameplay. While both switches have their advantages, the Holly switch caters to those looking for a more nuanced typing experience, while the Speed Silver switch is tailored for gamers prioritizing quick response times. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. This means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic material absorbing more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the bottom-out sound and feel of both switches will have a duller and rounder quality, creating a more muted typing experience compared to switches with stiffer bottom housings.
However, where the two switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Holly boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffer plastic material leads to a more clear and resonant sound, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic material of the nylon top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and more muted sound when compared to the sharper sound of polycarbonate.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Holly and the Cherry MX Speed Silver comes down to personal preference in typing sound and feel. Those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile may lean towards the Holly with its polycarbonate top housing, while individuals who enjoy a deeper and fuller sound profile may opt for the MX Speed Silver with its nylon top housing. However, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of the bottom housing material, providing a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to the user's preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, which has an actuation force of 30 grams. This means that the Cherry MX Speed Silver requires less force to register a keypress, making it a lighter option for those who prefer a more gentle typing experience. However, the bottom out force for both switches is not provided, so it is unclear which switch would require more force to fully press down. In general, a lighter actuation force is ideal for prolonged typing sessions, while a heavier actuation force can provide a more satisfying and substantial typing feel. Overall, if the bottom out force of both switches is similar, users can expect comparable results in terms of how much force is needed to fully press down the keys.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the MX Speed Silver offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Holly switch. Those who prefer a quicker response time may lean towards the MX Speed Silver due to its shorter travel distance, while individuals who enjoy a deeper key press may find the Holly switch more satisfying. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, with the MX Speed Silver being the shorter option and the Holly switch providing a slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and typing 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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 tactile switch sets itself apart with a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, giving users a balanced and distinctive typing experience. The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, on the other hand, offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Holly being more chirpy and clacky, and the MX Speed Silver providing a deeper and more bass-heavy sound.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Holly switch does not have specific descriptors provided, but based on its medium 50g actuation force, users can expect a tactile and responsive typing experience. The Cherry MX Speed Silver switch, on the other hand, is described as textured, indicating that it may have noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture for added grip, while others may opt for a smoother typing experience without any friction. Overall, both switches offer different tactile feels that cater to varying preferences among mechanical keyboard users.
In conclusion, the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that appeal to different preferences. The Holly provides a chirpy and clacky sound profile, along with a tactile typing experience due to its medium actuation force, while the MX Speed Silver delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a textured feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and the specific requirements of the user, whether it be for typing, gaming, or a combination of both.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, you should consider your priorities for typing experience and usage. If you value a balanced and distinctive typing sound with chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly switch with its medium 50g actuation force would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize speed and rapid response, especially for gaming where milliseconds matter, the Cherry MX Speed Silver with its linear action and low spring resistance would be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a unique sound signature or swift responsiveness in your mechanical keyboard switch.
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