KTT Matcha vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Matcha, a tactile switch, with the Dareu Snow, a linear switch, some key differences emerge. The Matcha is praised for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Snow switch offers an innovative experience with its POK material construction for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature while typing. The Matcha is characterized as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', whereas the Snow is classified as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy'. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the Dareu Snow, it is clear that both switches offer unique advantages. The Matcha's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Snow's POK top housing contributes to smooth, clacky switch operation. In terms of durability, the POK material of the Snow surpasses polycarbonate in strength and wear resistance. However, both materials offer a resilient housing option for mechanical switches.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the contrast continues between the Matcha's polycarbonate and the Snow's nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Matcha provides a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing in the Snow elicits a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. Despite this difference, both materials offer quality options for the bottom housing of mechanical switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Matcha and the Dareu Snow comes down to personal preference in sound profile and feel. While the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Matcha offer a sharp and clear sound, the POK top housing and nylon bottom housing of the Snow produce a smoother and deeper sound. Whichever switch you choose, each housing material brings unique qualities that contribute to the overall typing experience, making both options worth considering for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. The Matcha also has a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Snow has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Matcha provides a lighter and easier typing experience, which may be preferred for those who type for extended periods. On the other hand, the Snow offers a more substantial and satisfying typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches have their own advantages, with the Matcha being lighter and more comfortable for longer typing sessions, while the Snow provides a stronger push feel for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Snow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Matcha. The Matcha's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth, while the Snow's 3.3 mm travel distance is shallower, providing faster response times preferred by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Matcha offering a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth in their typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 Matcha tactile switch is known for its clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a thocky sound with a deep, rich quality. The Matcha's clean bottom-out sound reflects its long pole stem design, while the Snow's sound signature is influenced by its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem. Depending on personal preference and setup, both switches provide unique auditory experiences.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. This means that it offers a mild, responsive, medium-tactile, light, and gentle typing experience, suitable for various preferences and typing styles. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback and actuation force, catering to different preferences for typing comfort and performance.
Overall, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and Dareu Snow linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Matcha provides a clacky sound and a snappy, feathery typing experience, the Snow offers a thocky sound and a bouncy, lively feel when typing. Depending on whether you prefer a sharp, responsive typing experience or a deep, rich sound profile, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a light actuation force and a comfortable, snappy tactility with a clean bottom-out sound, the Matcha may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a smooth linear switch with a deeper sound signature thanks to the innovative use of POK material, the Snow switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities, and your decision should be based on what feels best for your typing experience.
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