Dareu Holly vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

The Dareu Holly and Gazzew U4 mechanical keyboard switches both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience. The Dareu Holly switch stands out with its medium 50g actuation force and a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience for users seeking a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump along with a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, creating a whisper-quiet sound profile. While the Holly switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Neutral', the U4 switch is classified as 'Muted', 'Low-pitched', 'Sharp'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different typing preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Holly Tactile

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Dareu Holly and the Gazzew U4 both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Holly utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the U4 features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, also known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, the Holly's polycarbonate material provides a brighter and more defined sound compared to the U4's softer blend.

In terms of the bottom housing, the Holly uses a nylon material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, like its top housing, delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. Despite being different materials, both the nylon and Gazzew blend bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience for their respective switches. The choice between these materials ultimately comes down to the desired sound profile and feel that the user prefers.

When considering a switch where the top and bottom housings are different, it's important to note how each material influences the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Holly and U4, the combination of their unique top and bottom housing materials provides a well-rounded sound profile that caters to different preferences. Whether seeking a sharper and crisper sound from polycarbonate or a rich and deep sound from the Gazzew blend, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to a variety of typing preferences.

Weight

The Dareu Holly tactile switch is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch. The Holly requires 50 grams of force to actuate, while the U4 requires 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the U4 is heavier with 62 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Holly. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Holly for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the U4 with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches provide a tactile feel when typing, so users can expect similar feedback in that aspect. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

Comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, the Dareu Holly has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Holly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4, making it the longer option of the two. Both distances fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Holly being on the higher end and the U4 being on the lower end. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the U4 for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the longer travel distance of the Holly. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Dareu Holly switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. The Gazzew U4 switch, on the other hand, is praised for its whisper-quiet sound profile, characterized by a muted and low-pitched tone that minimizes noise. The Holly switch stands out for its unique sound signature, while the U4 switch offers a more subtle and quiet typing experience.

As for feel, the Dareu Holly switch's tactile feel is not explicitly described in the provided information. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 switch is noted for its sharp tactile bump, delivering a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress. This indicates that the U4 switch provides a more pronounced tactile feedback compared to the Holly switch, which lacks detailed information on its tactile feel.

In conclusion, the Dareu Holly and Gazzew U4 tactile switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Holly switch excels in providing a unique sound signature with chirpy and clacky elements, ideal for users seeking a balanced typing experience with a noticeable auditory feedback. On the other hand, the U4 switch prioritizes a quiet typing experience with a muted and low-pitched sound profile, coupled with a sharp tactile bump for a more pronounced tactile feedback. Depending on whether you prefer a more distinctive sound or a quieter typing experience with a sharper tactile feedback, you can choose between the Holly and U4 switches to suit your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance in their respective sound and feel qualities, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium actuation force and a unique sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a sharp tactile bump accompanied by a plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision between the Holly and U4 switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound or feel in your typing experience. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Holly Tactile

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more