Dareu Holly vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Holly and the KTT Phalaenopsis stand out as popular options in the tactile switch category. The Dareu Holly switch is loved for its medium 50g actuation force and unique sound signature that blends chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch boasts a light 37g actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump, making typing effortless and enjoyable with minimal finger fatigue. While the Holly is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Neutral', the Phalaenopsis is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Stepped', 'Thocky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, so choosing between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
50g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and the KTT Phalaenopsis both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Holly utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of materials, the Dareu Holly and the KTT Phalaenopsis differ in their bottom housings. While the Holly features a nylon bottom housing, the Phalaenopsis utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing qualities. Polycarbonate, being stiffer, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The bottom housing of a switch has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, both the Dareu Holly and the KTT Phalaenopsis offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Holly's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing creates a balance between a clear, resonant sound and a deep, full sound. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis's dual polycarbonate housing provides a consistently sharp and crisp sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches demonstrate the importance of housing materials in shaping sound characteristics and overall typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch's actuation force of 37 grams. This means that the Holly requires more force to trigger a keystroke. However, the bottom out force for the Holly is unavailable, while the Phalaenopsis has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires more force to press the key all the way down. In terms of weight, the Phalaenopsis is lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier in terms of bottom out force. The preference for a lighter or heavier switch depends on personal preference, with lighter switches being favored for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial typing experience. The similar actuation force of the Holly and the bottom out force of the Phalaenopsis mean that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience in those specific aspects.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled. These switches provide consistent tactile feedback and actuation force, making them ideal choices for those who prefer a tactile typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of both switches may contribute to a comfortable typing experience for users who enjoy a shorter travel distance compared to switches with longer travel distances.
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 Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, setting it apart with a distinct typing experience. The chirpy characteristic adds a subtle squeak, while the clacky feature produces a sharp and snappy sound, creating a vibrant and engaging auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch provides a bassy and thocky sound profile, bringing a deeper and richer tone to each keystroke. Both switches offer appealing sound qualities, with the Holly leaning towards a more lively and playful sound, while the Phalaenopsis delivers a more resonant and substantial auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can achieve satisfying sound results with either switch.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly tactile switch does not have specific descriptors provided, so the exact tactile sensation is unknown. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is described as having a stepped feel. This means that the switch has a two-stage tactile feedback, offering a more subtle transition between the key press and release compared to a fully tactile switch. The stepped feature adds a nuanced tactile experience, allowing users to feel distinct pre-travel and post-travel sensations during typing. While the exact feel of the Holly switch remains undefined, the Phalaenopsis switch provides a unique tactile sensation with its stepped configuration, catering to users who appreciate a more controlled and deliberate keystroke.
In conclusion, the Dareu Holly and KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holly switch excels in providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature, creating a dynamic typing atmosphere for users seeking a balanced and engaging auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis switch delivers a bassy and thocky sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying tone for each key press. While the feel of the Holly switch is unspecified, the Phalaenopsis switch stands out with its stepped tactile sensation, providing a controlled and nuanced typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose based on their desired sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a medium actuation force and a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly tactile switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer effortless typing with minimal finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, along with a light actuation force and a satisfying tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feel. Both switches offer their own set of unique features to enhance your overall typing experience.
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