Cherry MX Black vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The MX Black, known for its classic textured smoothness and deep sound profile, offers a satisfying typing experience with a stiff feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow boasts an innovative use of POK material for a smooth linear switch that produces a deeper sound signature, along with a bouncy and thocky feel. While the MX Black offers a familiar and reliable typing experience, the Snow switch stands out for its unique material and sound profile. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Snow, it is evident that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. This material is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to bottom-out and release of the keys.
However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The MX Black features a nylon top housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile by creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Dareu Snow utilizes POK material for its top housing, which is smoother and more durable than nylon. The POK material not only enhances the smoothness and clackiness of the switches but also provides exceptional shock and wear resistance, surpassing the qualities of nylon.
In essence, while both the Cherry MX Black and the Dareu Snow share similarities in utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, the use of different materials for their top housing sets them apart. The MX Black's nylon top housing offers a classic sound profile with its softer nature, while the Dareu Snow's POK top housing enhances smoothness, clackiness, and durability. These differences in housing materials ultimately influence the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, we can see some differences in weight. The Cherry MX Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a preferable option for those looking for a lighter keystroke feel. The actuation force is crucial for triggering a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures how much force is needed to fully press down the key. Ultimately, the Cherry MX Black offers a heavier typing experience, while the Dareu Snow provides a lighter and smoother typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The MX Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Snow, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches provide a balance between depth and responsiveness, but the MX Black leans towards a deeper feel while the Snow leans towards a quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is known for its low-pitched profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that many users appreciate for its deep sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a thocky sound, delivering a rich and satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when the keys are pressed and released. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, with the MX Black leaning towards a deeper tone while the Snow switch provides a rich and thocky sound experience.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is described as textured, providing noticeable friction when pressed, which can be preferred by some users for added tactile feedback. Additionally, the MX Black switch is known for its stiff feel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. On the contrary, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively and rebounding feel when pressed. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the MX Black focusing on texture and stiffness while the Snow switch offers a bouncy and energetic typing feel.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Black switch delivers a deep and low-pitched sound with a textured and stiff feel, the Snow switch offers a thocky sound profile with a bouncy and lively typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both switches providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black and Dareu Snow linear switches, consider your preferred typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured smoothness with a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black switches with their iconic reputation might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, a thocky sound profile with a POK material top housing and stem, and a bouncy feel when typing, the Dareu Snow switches offer a unique and innovative option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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