TKC Kiwi vs. Dareu Snow

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TKC Kiwi, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Snow, a linear switch. The Kiwi Switches are praised for their tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump at the top of each key press. The switches have a snappy sound profile that enhances the typing experience, and the factory lubrication ensures smooth and effortless typing right out of the box. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is known for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem, resulting in a smooth and deep sound signature while typing. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different 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

TKC Kiwi Tactile

Dareu Snow Linear

$8.00 per 10

$7.78

$5.76 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Dareu Snow, it is evident that they both offer unique advantages. The Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for both the top and bottom housing, providing a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing not only offers a smooth and clacky typing experience but also boasts exceptional durability, making it a top choice for switch housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Snow, while also contributing to a unique sound profile, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing.

While the Kiwi and Snow both offer distinct advantages with their housing materials, they also differ in certain aspects. The UHWMPE housing of the Kiwi may provide a brighter sound signature, but the POK material used in the Snow offers superior durability and shock resistance. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Snow absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing. Overall, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials, with the Snow leaning towards durability and sound quality, while the Kiwi focuses on brightness and resonance.

Despite their differences, the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Dareu Snow ultimately work together to create a satisfying typing experience. The split qualities of the top and bottom housings ensure that each switch provides a balanced sound profile and feel when typing. The impact of the bottom housing can be felt in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be the bright and resonant clacks of the Kiwi or the smooth and durable typing experience of the Snow, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to various preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that the Kiwi requires a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Snow's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Kiwi is heavier at 67 grams, whereas the Snow has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Kiwi for its lighter actuation force, which allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Snow offers a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel but still maintains a relatively moderate bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and overall typing experience.

Travel distance

The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Kiwi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Snow. The Kiwi's 4 mm distance provides a more traditional feel, offering a deeper keystroke that some may find more satisfying. On the other hand, the Snow's 3.3 mm distance is slightly shorter, which may appeal to gamers looking for a quicker response time. Both switches offer their own unique advantages based on their travel distance, with the Kiwi being on the longer side and the Snow being on the shorter side of the spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile that provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone, suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch produces a thocky and low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and satisfying auditory experience when typing. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, with the Kiwi leaning towards a more neutral sound and the Snow offering a deeper tone.

Moving on to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch provides a stepped, accented, and polished typing experience, offering a two-stage tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still prominent. The Dareu Snow switch, on the other hand, offers a bouncy feel with spring-like feedback, providing a lively and responsive typing sensation. While the Kiwi offers a more refined and polished typing feel, the Snow provides a bouncy and responsive keystroke experience.

In conclusion, when comparing the subjective qualities of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Kiwi excels in providing a low-pitched and neutral sound profile with a stepped, accented, and polished feel, while the Snow delivers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a bouncy typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that can enhance your overall enjoyment while typing.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TKC Kiwi tactile switch or the Dareu Snow linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump and a snappy sound profile, then the Kiwi switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a deep sound signature and innovative use of POK material, then the Snow switch would suit your typing preferences better. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched sound profile, the Kiwi would be more suitable, while the Snow offers a thocky sound profile. Consider the bottom out force, tactile feel, and sound profile that best matches your typing preferences when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your individual preferences and typing style.

Mentioned in this article

TKC Kiwi Tactile

$8.00 per 10

Learn more

Dareu Snow Linear

$7.78

$5.76 per 10

Learn more