HMX Jelly vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and Dareu Snow offer intriguing options for enthusiasts looking for smooth linear performance, yet they present distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The HMX Jelly switch is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature and incredibly smooth feel, thanks to its excellent factory lubrication and a lightweight 42g actuation force, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle touch with satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch distinguishes itself with its innovative POK material in both its top housing and stem, delivering a similarly smooth typing experience but with a unique, deeper sound signature that may appeal to users seeking a more resonant feel. While both switches excel in their linear action, attracting fans of quiet and seamless typing experiences, their subtle differences can influence comfort and auditory satisfaction. 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
42g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the Dareu Snow, notable differences in the top housing contribute significantly to the overall feel and sound profile of the two switches. The Jelly utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer nature that absorbs sound well, resulting in a deeper and fuller auditory experience. In contrast, the Snow incorporates POK (polyketone) for its top housing, a material celebrated for its exceptionally low friction and impressive durability. The choice of POK naturally leads to a smoother tactile experience that can create, paradoxically, a clackier sound profile compared to the Jelly's rounds tones. While both materials have distinct characteristics, they ultimately cater to different user preferences, balancing softness and sound absorption against smoothness and durability.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, it is noteworthy that they both utilize nylon, a classic material known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile. This similarity means that regardless of the differences in the top housing, both the Jelly and Snow will deliver similar base characteristics in terms of sound when bottoming out. The nylon used in both switches offers a consistent experience and sound quality, ensuring that, even with different top housings, users can expect a common sonic foundation anchored by the inherent properties of nylon. This shared bottom housing material allows for a more uniform experience when typing on both switches.
Ultimately, the variation in top housing between the HMX Jelly and Dareu Snow informs the overall sound and feel, while similar bottom housings provide a cohesive base for both switches. The differences in materials mean that while they may produce similar tonal qualities during the bottoming out experience, the typing feedback and auditory response will diverge significantly during the release phase. Users seeking a deeper sound profile with a fuller feel might prefer the Jelly, while those who prioritize smooth functionality and durability may gravitate toward the Snow. Regardless of the specific features, both switches employ nylon in their bottom housings, leading to a reassuring consistency in performance.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch to the Dareu Snow linear switch, there is a clear distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jelly switch features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a favorable option for those who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Snow switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push. This difference in weight means that while the Jelly offers an easier keypress, the Snow provides more resistance, potentially reducing finger fatigue for some users who prefer a firmer feedback. Overall, users should consider their typing style and preferences when choosing between these two switches, as the Jelly is easier on the fingers, while the Snow delivers a more robust tactile sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Jelly switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Snow switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Jelly offers a deeper feel with a longer actuation distance, making it potentially more suitable for users who appreciate a more pronounced keypress. In contrast, the Snow's shorter travel distance may cater to gamers who prioritize rapid response times and prefer a quicker, more abrupt key response. Therefore, individuals who favor a substantial depth in their key presses might lean towards the HMX Jelly switch, while those seeking a more responsive option may find the Dareu Snow switch more appealing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 HMX Jelly switch is renowned for its low-pitched, deep, thocky signature that many typists find satisfying. The deep thud resonates well, producing a rich auditory experience that is both soothing and engaging. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch also offers a deeper sound signature, enhanced by its use of innovative POK material, which contributes to a similarly smooth auditory profile. Both switches emphasize lower frequencies, which guarantees an enjoyable typing experience characterized by less harshness compared to higher-pitched options. However, the specific resonance of each switch might vary based on external factors like the keyboard design and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Jelly switch is exceptionally smooth due to its high-quality factory lube, paired with a lightweight actuation force of 42g, making it easy to press without fatigue. While its specific feel isn't elaborated, the smoothness is a key selling point. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch features a bouncy characteristic that provides a spring-like feedback when pressed, giving typists a lively sensation with each keystroke. This difference in tactile feedback may appeal to different preferences, with the Jelly offering a continuous smooth experience and the Snow delivering a more playful, responsive feel.
Overall, both the HMX Jelly and Dareu Snow switches cater to different types of typists but share strong similarities in sound profile, focusing on a low-pitched, deep tone that many users find appealing. The Jelly’s smoothness and the Snow’s bounce create distinct but enjoyable tactile experiences. Whether you prioritize the effortless glide of the Jelly or the engaging bounce of the Snow, both switches are likely to enhance your typing experience, just with their unique qualities appealing to different preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you lean towards a lighter touch and enjoy a plush typing experience, the Jelly switch might be your best bet. Its 42g actuation force and smooth feel make it ideal for quick typing and extended gaming sessions, while the low-pitched, thocky sound enhances the auditory feedback, creating an enjoyable atmosphere for both work and play. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more resistance and a rebound effect when typing, the Snow switch could be the better fit. With its 60g bottom out force and bouncy feedback, you’ll find that it provides a satisfying tactile experience, making it suitable for both gaming and typing tasks that benefit from a more grounded feel. Furthermore, the Snow's unique POK material gives it a deeper sound signature, which may cater better to those who appreciate a richer auditory feedback. In essence, whether you opt for the quick, smooth comfort of the Jelly or the more substantial, bouncy feedback of the Snow, both switches offer distinct advantages that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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