Cherry MX Orange vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Orange and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to enhancing your typing or gaming experience, mechanical keyboard switches play a crucial role in determining feel and sound. The Cherry MX Orange switches are particularly celebrated for their revived lineage, bringing back the beloved characteristics of the original MX Orange with modern enhancements for improved performance and reliability. These linear switches provide a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, making them ideal for users who prefer a quiet and uninterrupted typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switches elevate the linear switch design further by utilizing POK material for both the top housing and stem, which results in a distinctive deeper sound signature and a tactile sensation described as "thocky" and "bouncy." While the MX Orange offers a reliable and familiar feel, the Snow switch introduces a unique auditory and tactile experience that might appeal to those seeking something different. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Orange and the Dareu Snow, notable differences emerge, particularly in their top housings. The Cherry MX Orange utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is attributed to nylon's soft properties, which allow it to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics. As a result, when typing on switches made from nylon, users can expect a duller and rounder auditory experience. In contrast, the Dareu Snow incorporates POK, or polyketone, for its top housing. This material boasts a lower coefficient of friction, contributing to a smoother typing experience. Additionally, the durability of POK is impressive, featuring wear resistance significantly stronger than that of nylon, which implies a different tactile feel and auditory impact when engaging the switches.
Conversely, when examining the bottom housings of both switches, a striking similarity becomes evident. Both the Cherry MX Orange and the Dareu Snow utilize nylon for their bottom housings, suggesting they will provide a similar auditory experience at this level. The inherent qualities of nylon, such as its sound-absorbing capacity, result in a fuller and deeper sound profile when the switch bottoms out. Thus, despite the differences in the top housings, which affect the release sound, both switches will exhibit comparable performance and sound characteristics at their bottom housing level. This shared nylon material can lead to an overall similar bottoming-out experience, ensuring users still find comfort and consistency in sound.
In terms of typing experience, the contrasting top housing materials can result in different sound profiles and tactile feedback without compromising the overall experience thanks to the identical bottom housings. The Cherry MX Orange offers a warmer and deeper sound from its nylon top, while the Dareu Snow, with its POK material, leans towards a smoother and potentially crisper auditory response. However, since both switches share nylon for their bottoms, users can expect a consistent transition between bottoming out and releasing keys in both cases. Ultimately, while the materials contribute uniquely to each switch's performance, the commonality found in the bottom housings plays a significant role in achieving a degree of similarity in user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Orange linear switch to the Dareu Snow linear switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to various user preferences. The Cherry MX Orange requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams, compared to the 50 grams required by the Dareu Snow, making the Snow switch the lighter option for those who prefer less forceful keystrokes, facilitating longer typing sessions or extended gaming. However, the Dareu Snow also has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is a measurable force indicating a medium level of resistance upon fully depressing the key. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Cherry MX Orange is not available, leaving an unknown aspect for direct comparison. Ultimately, users who enjoy a lighter touch may prefer the Dareu Snow, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Cherry MX Orange, given its higher actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Cherry MX Orange linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, notable differences emerge. The Cherry MX Orange features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the MX Orange offers a deeper key press, which can be more satisfying for users who prefer a substantial tactile feedback when typing or gaming. In contrast, the shorter 3.3 mm distance of the Snow switch may appeal to gamers and those seeking quicker response times, facilitating rapid keypresses and potentially enhancing performance in fast-paced scenarios. Therefore, if you favor a more traditional, hearty depth, the Cherry MX Orange would be the better choice, whereas the Dareu Snow is ideal for users who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their keystrokes.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Orange switches are typically characterized by a satisfying but less pronounced auditory feedback compared to the Dareu Snow switches. While the specific sound profile of the MX Orange isn't detailed, you can expect it to have a balanced and moderate sound, allowing for a more discreet typing experience suitable for office environments. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch is known for its thocky sound, characterized by a deep and rich tone reminiscent of a satisfying "thud" when keys are engaged and released. This switch also features a neutral and low-pitched sound that contributes to a more bass-heavy and mellow typing experience. As a result, users who prefer a more dynamic auditory feedback might gravitate towards the Snow switch.
When considering the feel of each switch, the MX Orange's tactile feedback remains unspecified, leaving its exact character open to interpretation. However, it is positioned as a comfortable option for general use. Alternatively, the Dareu Snow switch is noted for its bouncy feel, offering a delightful spring-like feedback that adds a layer of enjoyment during typing. This lively sensation is particularly advantageous for users who appreciate a bit of rebound as their fingers press down the keys, making it feel more engaging during extensive typing sessions.
In summary, if you're looking for a more pronounced auditory experience, the Dareu Snow switch offers a rich, thocky sound and a bouncy feel that many typists find appealing, while the Cherry MX Orange remains a solid choice for its balanced sound and likely comfort, though its feel characteristics are less defined. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prioritize sound dynamics and tactile feedback or prefer a more understated yet reliable performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Orange and the Dareu Snow switch really depends on your specific typing preferences and environment. If you’re looking for a switch that provides a smooth typing experience with a balanced feel, the Cherry MX Orange may suit you well, especially if you're nostalgic for the original MX Orange switches that have been enhanced for today's mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. However, if you want a richer auditory feedback and a slightly firmer feel, the Dareu Snow is an excellent option. Its unique POK material enhances the typing experience, creating a thocky sound profile that many users find satisfying, while the bouncy feedback gives you a lively typing sensation. Choose the Snow for a home environment or if you appreciate a solid auditory experience, but lean towards the MX Orange if you prefer a smoother, quieter approach. Ultimately, your decision should revolve around whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback over a classic, reliable feel.
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