Dareu Holly vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Holly and Gazzew U4T both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Holly 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. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T boasts a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, delivering a bassy 'thock' sound profile along with assertive tactile feedback. While the Holly appeals to users seeking a unique typing experience with its chirpy and clacky elements, the U4T provides auditory and tactile satisfaction with its thocky sound profile and sharp tactility. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and Gazzew U4T both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Holly's polycarbonate top housing is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound, while the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound. Both materials have their advantages - polycarbonate is stiffer, resulting in a clearer sound, while the Gazzew blend is softer and absorbs more sound for a fuller profile. Despite these differences, both switches offer an excellent sound experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Holly features a nylon bottom that provides a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon's softer properties help absorb sound, creating a rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound thanks to its softness. While the materials used for the bottom housings differ, both switches offer a similar depth and richness to their sound profiles, making them both appealing choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Dareu Holly and Gazzew U4T results in unique sound profiles. The split between top and bottom housings means that each switch offers a different experience when typing - the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the Holly's polycarbonate top or the rich and deep sound of the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend, both switches offer high-quality sound experiences that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Holly has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the U4T, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the U4T has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience than the Holly, which has an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Holly switch, while those who enjoy a more robust feel when typing may opt for the U4T switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly and Gazzew U4T tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm, making them equally suitable for users who prefer a medium travel distance. When comparing them, users can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This makes both switches a great option for those looking for consistent keypress feedback and tactile feel. Overall, both the Dareu Holly and Gazzew U4T tactile switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a balanced travel distance that is neither too short nor too long.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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 unique with its chirpy and clacky elements, providing a distinct and balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, resulting in a bassy 'thock' sound profile that accompanies an assertive tactile feedback. Both switches offer different sound profiles, catering to users with varying preferences and creating auditory satisfaction during typing sessions.
Turning to the tactile feel of the switches, the Dareu Holly's specific qualities in this regard are unknown. However, the Gazzew U4T is known for its sharp tactile feedback, characterized by a high intensity and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each key press. This feature provides users with a clear sense of actuation, aiding in typing accuracy and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Holly and Gazzew U4T tactile switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, they both provide users with a satisfying and distinctive typing experience. The Holly stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound elements, while the U4T impresses with its bassy thock sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing experience and find a switch that suits their needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when making a decision between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a unique sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky elements and a medium actuation force of 50g, the Holly may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bassy 'thock' sound profile and a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65g, along with a sharp tactile feedback, then the U4T would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences, whether you prioritize sound, tactile feedback, or actuation force. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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