Gateron Mini i vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Snow offer unique experiences for users. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that provides a gentle tactility in each keystroke, making it ideal for office environments where a quiet and professional typing experience is preferred. In contrast, the Dareu Snow is a linear switch that stands out for its innovative use of POK material, resulting in a deeper sound signature during typing. While the Gateron Mini i is known for its bouncy and easy-to-press feel, the Dareu Snow offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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 double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Snow, both switches feature a nylon top housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Snow utilizes a POK top housing, which offers exceptional durability and smoothness. While both materials contribute to a unique typing experience, the POK material in the Snow surpasses nylon in terms of strength and wear resistance.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Mini i and the Snow feature nylon bottom housings. This classic switch housing material also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound. While the nylon bottom housing in both switches provides similar acoustic qualities, the Snow's overall build quality may be higher due to its POK top housing, which offers enhanced durability and impact resistance.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Dareu Snow will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing for consistent acoustic qualities, but the Snow's POK top housing may offer a smoother and more durable typing experience. Whether you prefer the smooth, clacky feel of the Snow or the deeper sound profile of the Mini i, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch reveals some key differences. The Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Snow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. The Mini i provides a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Snow offers a slightly stronger push feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a satisfying tactile feedback, but the Mini i is lighter in comparison to the Snow, which has a slightly heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their quick response times. The Mini i offers slightly more depth with its 3.4 mm travel distance compared to the Snow's 3.3 mm. However, the difference is minimal and may not be noticeable to all users. Ultimately, both switches provide a relatively short travel distance that caters to those looking for a swift and responsive typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, striking a balance between a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound, making it suitable for most users in various settings. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as having a thocky sound signature, producing a deep and rich sound when pressed, with a low-pitched tone for a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Mini i providing a more neutral and versatile option, while the Snow offers a more unique and deep sound experience.
When it comes to feel, both switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation with a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The Mini i also offers an easy-to-press experience, with gentle resistance during key presses that require minimal force to activate, ultimately reducing finger fatigue during longer typing sessions. The Snow, on the other hand, does not have detailed descriptions of its feel beyond being bouncy, but it can be inferred that it offers a similar bouncy and lively typing experience as the Mini i.
Overall, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is best suited for those seeking a quiet and comfortable typing experience in office settings, with a neutral sound profile and easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch stands out with its innovative use of materials and deep thocky sound signature, offering a unique typing experience with a bouncy feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide distinct qualities that can enhance the typing experience for different users.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you prioritize a lightweight switch with gentle tactility and a fairly muted sound profile, ideal for office use and long typing sessions without the noise, the Gateron Mini i may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch with an innovative POK material construction that provides a deeper sound signature and a smooth linear typing experience, the Dareu Snow switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on factors like actuation force, sound, and feel that align with your personal typing style and environment.
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