Dareu Holly vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch to the Gateron Type L linear switch, you'll find two distinct options for your mechanical keyboard needs. The Holly switch offers a medium 50g actuation force and a unique sound signature with chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Type L switch is the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out, and produces a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. Each switch has its own characteristics and advantages - the Holly for its balance and distinctiveness, and the Type L for its lightness and deeper 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
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and the Gateron Type L both use different materials for their housing components, with the Holly featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Type L has a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Holly creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a crisper typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Type L produces a deeper and fuller sound, more suitable for users looking for a more muted typing sound. Both switches offer unique sound profiles due to the material used in their top housings.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Holly and Type L utilize nylon material, which enhances the sound profile by creating a deep and full typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the switches absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming-out. This feature is consistent across both switches, providing a uniform typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a similar typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Holly and the Gateron Type L may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Holly's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Type L's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches share the use of nylon bottom housing, which results in a consistent sound and feel upon bottoming-out. Ultimately, users looking for a specific sound profile may lean towards one switch over the other based on the material used in the top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that the Holly requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Type L's 38 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Holly is unknown, while the Type L has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Type L switch would be easier to press down completely compared to the Holly switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Type L for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier actuation force of the Holly for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. With both switches offering a 4 mm travel distance, users can enjoy a consistent typing experience regardless of the switch they choose.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 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 is known for its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a balanced and distinctive typing experience. The Gateron Type L linear switch, on the other hand, offers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, providing a more elegant and subdued typing sound. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of environments and preferences, though the Holly's chirpy and clacky elements stand out for those looking for a more lively typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly switch's tactile feel is not explicitly described in the provided information. However, the Gateron Type L linear switch is characterized as feathery and easy-to-press, offering a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. The light actuation force required by the Type L switch makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions, such as gaming or work, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel.
Overall, despite their differences in sound and feel, both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a more lively and distinctive sound profile, the Holly switch may be the way to go, while the Type L switch provides a more subdued and elegant typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, ensuring that users can achieve a satisfying typing experience regardless of their preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Holly tactile switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you value a unique and balanced sound profile with chirpy and clacky elements, the Holly switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum, the Type L switch would be more fitting. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preferences for sound and feel while typing.
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