Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Ink Yellow and Dareu Snow are two options worth considering. The Gateron Ink Yellow, a linear switch, is known for its shorter travel and provides a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. With a smooth and clacky feel, this switch is ideal for those looking for a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow, another linear switch, stands out with its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature while typing. Categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy', the Snow switch offers a unique typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Snow, we find that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing provides a thin and higher-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing is known for its smoothness, durability, and clacky sound. While they both offer a satisfying typing experience, the Ink Yellow leans towards a sharper sound profile, while the Snow provides a smoother and more rounded sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the differences in materials between the two switches become more apparent. The Ink Yellow's INK blend bottom housing mirrors the characteristics of its top housing, offering a satisfyingly thin and higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the Snow's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when compared to the sharper sound produced by the bottom housing of the Ink Yellow.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Yellow and Dareu Snow both provide excellent typing experiences, they do so in slightly different ways due to their housing materials. The INK blend housing of the Ink Yellow offers a more pointed and high-pitched sound profile, while the POK material of the Snow contributes to a smoother and more durable typing experience. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Snow creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the bottom housing of the Ink Yellow. Despite these differences, both switches are sure to satisfy users looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that the Snow is the lighter option. The Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium switch in terms of weight. In contrast, the Ink Yellow is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Snow switch due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces, allowing for longer periods of comfortable typing. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow switch may be preferred by individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, we see that the Ink Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5 mm compared to the Snow's 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices among gamers looking for faster response times. The difference of 0.2 mm may not be significant to some users, but it could potentially impact the feel of the keystrokes for those who are more sensitive to such changes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference - whether you prefer a slightly shorter travel distance for increased responsiveness or a slightly longer travel distance for a more satisfying keystroke feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offers a neutral and clacky typing experience, giving a balanced mix of sound profiles suitable for various typing preferences. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a deeper and more bass-heavy auditory feedback. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Ink Yellow catering to a sharper and brighter tone while the Snow offers a richer and more satisfying sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Meanwhile, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like feedback and lively feel to the keys when pressed. While the feel of these switches may differ in terms of responsiveness and feedback, both switches aim to provide a comfortable and engaging typing experience for users.
Taking all available information into consideration, it is clear that both the Gateron Ink Yellow and Dareu Snow linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Whether you prefer a neutral and clacky typing experience with a shorter travel like the Ink Yellow, or a deeper and thocky sound with a bouncy sensation like the Snow, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preferences. Ultimately, while the individual qualities of each switch may vary, you can expect similar results in terms of overall performance and enjoyment.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a typing experience that falls between a laptop and standard mechanical keyboard, enjoy a smooth and clacky feel, and prefer a moderate actuation force with a neutral or clacky sound profile, then the Gateron Ink Yellow switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with innovative POK material for a deeper sound signature, enjoy a thocky or neutral sound profile with a low-pitched tone, and prefer a bouncy feel when typing, then the Dareu Snow switch might suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and key feel.
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