Dareu Holly vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Smoothie mechanical keyboard switches, users are presented with unique features and qualities to consider. The Dareu Holly, a tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force, is favored for its balanced and distinctive typing experience, characterized by a combination of chirpy and clacky elements. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie, a linear switch made of all-POM material, offers a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Holly caters to those seeking a tactile typing feel with a unique sound, the Smoothie appeals to users looking for a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and the Gateron Smoothie both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Holly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound with higher pitch. On the other hand, the Smoothie features a POM top housing that produces a deeper sound profile that is more muted. While the materials are different, both switches offer a pleasing sound experience, with the Holly's polycarbonate providing a clear and resonant sound that is enhanced by RGB lighting, and the Smoothie's POM offering a unique and deep sound quality.
In terms of bottom housing, the Holly incorporates a nylon material that results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Smoothie also utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deep and muted sound profile. The differences in sound profiles between the two switches can be attributed to the combination of their top and bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Holly enhances the bottom-out sound and feel, while the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie adds to the overall deep and muted sound experience.
Overall, while the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Smoothie have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Holly's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp and resonant sound that is complemented by its nylon bottom housing, resulting in a fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the Smoothie's POM top and bottom housings create a deep and muted sound profile that offers a different auditory sensation. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches have their own appeal based on their housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, the Smoothie requires a lighter force of 40 grams compared to the Holly's 50 grams. This means that the Smoothie will have a slightly easier trigger for keystrokes. In terms of bottom out force, both switches have an unknown measurement, so it is unclear which one requires more force to press all the way down. When considering weight, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Smoothie for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the Holly for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Gateron Smoothie has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dareu Holly. The Dareu Holly with its 4 mm travel distance provides a slightly deeper press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a quicker and more responsive keystroke, which can be advantageous for those looking for speed and agility in their typing or gaming experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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, creating an engaging and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky sound signature that is deep and satisfying. Both switches appeal to different preferences in sound, with the Holly focusing on a lively and sharp sound, while the Smoothie delivers a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Users can expect an enjoyable auditory experience with either switch, depending on their sound preferences and setup.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, information on the Dareu Holly tactile switch is not available. However, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that enhances the overall typing feel. With a focus on providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation, the Smoothie switch aims to deliver a satisfying tactile experience for users who prioritize key feel and consistency.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Holly switch provides a distinctive sound profile with its chirpy and clacky elements, the Smoothie switch delivers a deep and satisfying thocky sound. On the other hand, the Smoothie switch emphasizes a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience, focusing on smoothness and consistency. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options promising a rewarding typing experience suited to different user needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Holly tactile switch or the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you value a balanced and distinctive sound with elements of chirpiness and clackiness, the Dareu Holly switch with its medium 50g actuation force may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky and smooth sound with a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie switch made of POM material might be more suited to your liking. It's important to test out both switches to see which one feels more comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs. Ultimately, the decision rests on what type of typing experience you desire - whether it be a unique sound signature or a smooth and satisfying feel.
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