Dareu Holly vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and Outemu Ocean both offer tactile feedback, but with different characteristics. The Dareu Holly switch features a medium 50g actuation force and a unique sound signature blending chirpy and clacky elements, making it ideal for users seeking a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but still offers a tactile typing feel. While the Dareu Holly is known for its categorization as ['Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Neutral'], the Ocean doesn't fall into any specific category. If you're looking for a switch with a specific sound signature and actuation force, the Dareu Holly may be the way to go. 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
55g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and the Outemu Ocean both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches. However, while both switches share this feature, their overall performance may differ based on other components.
On the other hand, the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Ocean differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Holly featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Ocean also opting for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience for users of switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite their similar choice of bottom housing material, the switches may produce distinct sound profiles due to differences in design or construction.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Ocean contributes to their overall sound characteristics. While both switches offer the benefits of polycarbonate in creating a clear and resonant sound, the variations in their bottom housing materials can lead to differences in the typing experience. Users may find that the Dareu Holly elicits a sharper and crisper sound, while the Outemu Ocean may provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual preferences in terms of sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to directly compare them in that aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Holly switch may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Ocean switch's slightly heavier actuation force may offer a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Overall, the choice between the two switches would ultimately come down to personal preference based on the desired typing feel and experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same depth of travel. The consistent travel distance of 4mm for both switches ensures that users will get a similar tactile feel and response when typing or gaming. This makes them both reliable options for those seeking a specific travel distance in their mechanical keyboards.
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 Ocean 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
The Dareu Holly switch stands out in the mechanical keyboard community for its unique sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience that many users appreciate. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Ocean switch, making direct comparisons in this aspect difficult. It is important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to the tactile feel of the switches, unfortunately, there is no information provided for either the Dareu Holly or the Outemu Ocean switch. Without this key detail, it is challenging to make a direct comparison on the tactile feedback offered by these switches. Tactility is a crucial aspect for many users when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, as it greatly impacts the typing experience and overall satisfaction with the switch.
Overall, while the Dareu Holly switch is praised for its unique sound signature combining chirpy and clacky elements, the lack of specific information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Ocean switch makes it challenging to provide a comprehensive comparison between the two. If the Ocean switch offers similar specifications in terms of actuation force and tactile feedback to the Holly switch, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel. As with any mechanical keyboard switch selection, personal preference plays a significant role in determining the best switch for individual users. It is recommended to try out different switches to find the one that suits your typing style and preferences the most.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force and sound. If you prefer a medium 50g actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Holly may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a different sound profile, you may want to opt for the Ocean. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what typing experience you value the most - whether it be the distinct sound of the Holly or the unknown qualities of the Ocean. Choose the switch that best fits your personal preferences and typing needs.
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