Dareu Holly vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it becomes evident that they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Holly stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and unique sound signature, blending chirpy and clacky elements to provide users with a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue switch lacks a specific standout feature but is known for its clicky feedback. While the Holly is ideal for those seeking a tactile typing experience, the Milk Blue may appeal to individuals who enjoy the audible feedback of a clicky switch. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and Outemu Milk Blue both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Holly yields a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Milk Blue also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a similar typing experience.
While both the Holly and Milk Blue switches have top housings made of polycarbonate, their bottom housings differ with the former using nylon. The nylon bottom housing of the Holly offers a softer feel and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Milk Blue also leverages nylon for its bottom housing, showcasing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Dareu Holly and Outemu Milk Blue switches provides a unique typing experience. The split between polycarbonate and nylon housings allows for varied sound profiles, with the stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing delivering a sharp and resonant sound while the softer nylon in the bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller typing experience. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to enhance the overall sound and feel of typing for users seeking a dynamic typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch both have an actuation force of 50 grams, making them equally easy to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the information is not available for either switch. Comparing weight, the lighter actuation force of these switches allows for longer typing sessions and smoother gaming experiences. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more robust typing experience, they may opt for switches with heavier bottom out forces. Overall, the similarities in actuation force between the Holly and Milk Blue switches suggest that users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes, while the differences in bottom out force may lead to slightly varying typing experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is the same, both measuring at 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4mm. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile response and audible click, making them ideal choices for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, providing users with similar results in terms of key feel and 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 Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10 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 stands out for its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a distinctive typing experience. The chirpy sound adds a playful twist, while the clacky sound delivers a sharp and percussive feel when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, specific information for both the Holly and Milk Blue switches is not provided. However, tactile switches like the Holly typically offer a satisfying bump when pressed, providing tactile feedback to the user. Clicky switches like the Milk Blue are known for their audible click sound and tactile bump, giving users a clear indication when the key press has been registered.
Overall, the Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a balanced and distinctive typing experience with its unique sound signature, catering to users looking for a combination of chirpy and clacky elements. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for its audible click sound and tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Holly offering a more playful and distinctive sound profile compared to the Milk Blue.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you are looking for a unique and balanced typing experience with a combination of chirpy and clacky sounds, the Holly switch with its 50g actuation force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a different sound profile, you may want to go with the Milk Blue. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switch selection. Happy typing!