KTT Laurel vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel and Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a linear typing experience. The KTT Laurel is praised for its medium-light actuation, full POM housing, and short travel, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort. Its low-pitched sound profile adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow features an innovative use of POK material for a smoother typing feel and a deeper sound signature. With a categorization of ['Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy'], the Snow switch offers a unique typing experience. Both switches have their strengths and 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and Dareu Snow both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Laurel's POM top housing provides a deep and somewhat muted sound profile, while the Snow's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky sound with superior durability. In terms of top housing material, the Snow's POK material stands out for its wear resistance and shock resistance, surpassing the qualities of POM in these aspects.
In the case of the bottom housing, the Laurel and Snow also showcase different materials with distinct characteristics. The Laurel's POM bottom housing produces a pleasing and unique deep sound profile, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Snow's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. These differences in bottom housing material highlight how each switch offers its own auditory experience based on the material used.
Overall, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in the KTT Laurel and Dareu Snow switches creates a well-rounded typing experience. While the top housing may impact the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Despite the differences in housing materials between the two switches, both provide a high-quality typing experience with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences for sound and durability.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch differ in weight, with the Laurel being the lighter option. The Laurel has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Laurel provides a lighter typing experience compared to the Snow, which offers a more substantial push feel. Some may prefer the Laurel for longer typing sessions or gaming, as the lighter forces can reduce finger fatigue. Others may find the Snow to be more satisfying due to the heavier forces, providing a more pronounced tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing experience and comfort level with actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Laurel's slightly longer travel distance may provide a slightly more substantial feel when pressing down on the key, appealing to those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Snow's shorter travel distance may feel more crisp and immediate, catering to those who prioritize quick key actuation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch is known for its subtly low-pitched profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a deeper sound signature, described as thocky, producing a rich and satisfying sound with each press. Depending on personal preference, the Laurel may appeal to those who prefer a lower-pitched sound, while the Snow may be favored by those who enjoy a deeper and more pronounced typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Laurel is recognized for its snappy response, making it super responsive due to its longer or dual-staged springs. This provides a typing experience that feels more lively and engaging. Conversely, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like feedback that makes the keys feel lively and provides rebound when pressed. Those who appreciate a more responsive and active typing experience may lean towards the Laurel, while individuals seeking a springy and elastic feedback may prefer the Snow.
In conclusion, the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Laurel provides a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy response, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, the Snow produces a deeper, thocky sound and a bouncy feel, offering a different typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing dynamics, users can select between the Laurel for a more mellow typing experience or the Snow for a richer and bouncier feel, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience regardless of choice.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the KTT Laurel linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the bottom out force and sound preference. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a low-pitched sound profile, the Laurel switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a deeper thocky sound, the Snow switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a snappy feel while typing, opt for the Laurel switch, whereas if you prefer a bouncy and lively feel, the Snow switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of force, sound, and feel.
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