Dareu Holly vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Holly and Outemu Phoenix mechanical keyboard switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Holly, a tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force, provides a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a unique sound signature combining chirpy and clacky elements. On the other hand, the Phoenix, a clicky switch with an under-skirt click mechanism, offers a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile that is both crunchy and polished. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing needs. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Phoenix, it is evident that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Holly diverges from the Phoenix in terms of the bottom housing material, as it uses nylon. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate and absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches with nylon housing.
While both the Holly and the Phoenix share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials provides a contrast in sound profiles. The Phoenix maintains a consistent sharp and clear sound due to the polycarbonate bottom housing, whereas the Holly's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profile showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience. Additionally, the split between top and bottom housing qualities highlights the importance of considering how each component contributes to the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Phoenix play a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each keyboard. While both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the Holly's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on sound profiles allows enthusiasts to make informed decisions when selecting a keyboard switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that the Holly requires a lighter actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Phoenix which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Phoenix has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the Holly is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Holly may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions, as it requires less effort to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Phoenix may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the Holly provides a lighter touch for actuation, while the Phoenix offers a heavier feel for bottoming out, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that the Holly has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but it can actually have a significant impact on the feel and performance of the switches. The Holly's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and a deeper keystroke sensation, which some users may prefer for typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Phoenix's shorter travel distance can result in quicker response times and potentially faster typing speed, making it a desirable choice for users who prioritize speed and agility. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. The chirpy sound adds a bit of character, while the clacky sound gives it a sharp and snappy tone. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is known for its crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience, with the Holly being more balanced and the Phoenix providing a distinct crunchiness.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly switch does not have specific descriptors mentioned, making it difficult to directly compare to the polished feel of the Outemu Phoenix switch. A polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Without information on the specific feel of the Holly switch, it is unclear how it compares to the polished feel of the Phoenix switch. However, both switches likely offer a satisfying tactile feedback given their focus on providing a unique typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Holly and Outemu Phoenix switches both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially in feel. The Holly switch stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound profile, catering to users looking for a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch offers a crunchy sound that adds a distinct element to typing. While there may be differences in feel based on the lack of specific information for the Holly switch, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and potentially feel, as both offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you are looking for a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Holly switch with its 50g actuation force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a crystalline and sparkling typing feel and sound profile with a clicky switch that features an under-skirt click mechanism, the Phoenix switch with a 62g bottom out force may be more suitable. Ultimately, your preference for sound and tactile feedback will guide you in choosing the switch that best complements your typing style and preferences.
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