Dareu Holly vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and the TTC Silent Frozen V2 stand out with their unique features catering to different preferences. The Dareu Holly, a tactile switch, offers a medium 50g actuation force and a distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing users with a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen V2, a linear switch, is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile, smooth operation, and pillowy feel. While the Holly switch is categorized as chirpy, clacky, and neutral, the Silent Frozen switch is described as thocky, low-pitched, creamy, buttery, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences; however, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is known for being relatively stiff, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Holly differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2) uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, emphasizing a consistent sharp and clear sound profile throughout.
While both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing for a sharper sound profile, the differing bottom housings of the Dareu Holly and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) bring distinct characteristics to the typing experience. The Holly's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more muted and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. In contrast, the Silent Frozen (V2)'s polycarbonate bottom housing aligns with the top housing to maintain a consistent sharp and clear sound profile, providing a more cohesive typing experience overall.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Holly and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While the Holly offers a dual housing design with polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom, resulting in a combination of sharp and deep sound characteristics, the Silent Frozen (V2) opts for a consistent polycarbonate housing for both top and bottom, emphasizing a sharp and clear sound profile throughout. Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with each material bringing unique qualities to the sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Frozen (V2) is lighter in both regards. The Holly requires an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Silent Frozen (V2) only needs 39 grams. Additionally, the Holly has an unknown bottom out force, whereas the Silent Frozen (V2) requires 43 grams to bottom out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) would be the ideal choice. However, for individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel for more substantial typing, the Holly may be more suitable. Ultimately, the weight of the switch is an important factor to consider depending on one's personal preference and intended use for the keyboard.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Holly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Frozen (V2). While both switches offer a relatively standard travel distance, the difference of 0.5 mm may be noticeable to some users. Choosing between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style. Those who prefer a slightly deeper press may opt for the Dareu Holly, while users looking for a slightly quicker response may lean towards the TTC Silent Frozen (V2). Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, and users can expect similar results from each despite the minor variance in travel distance.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offer contrasting auditory experiences. The Holly switch is known for its chirpy and clacky sound profile, providing a unique typing experience with a mix of sharp and percussive tones. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is recognized for its thocky and low-pitched sound, offering a deep and mellow sound that minimizes noise, catering to users seeking a quieter typing environment. Both switches deliver distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preference and the surrounding environment.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly switch lacks specific descriptors to outline its tactile experience. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch is praised for its creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. These descriptors suggest that typing on the Silent Frozen (V2) switch offers a smooth, effortless, and comfortable experience with reduced finger fatigue, thanks to the light actuation force and refined key travel. The lack of descriptors for the Holly switch makes it difficult to compare directly to the tactile sensations provided by the Silent Frozen (V2) switch.
Overall, the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holly switch stands out for its chirpy and clacky sound profile, catering to users looking for a distinctive typing experience, while the Silent Frozen (V2) switch excels in providing a quiet and smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer compelling options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, ensuring a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Holly tactile switch or the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities. If you are looking for a unique typing experience with a balanced and distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, then the Holly switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a super smooth and extremely quiet typing experience with a light 43g bottom out force, then the Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch could be more suited to your needs. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired feel when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer their own set of benefits, so choose the one that aligns best with what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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