Cherry MX Red vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Red and the Dareu Snow. The Cherry MX Red is a classic linear switch known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a smooth linear switch with a deeper sound signature. While both switches offer a 'Thocky' feel and a low-pitched sound, the Cherry MX Red is categorized as 'Textured' while the Dareu Snow is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Neutral'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style. 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
45g
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 Red and the Dareu Snow switches, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. Nylon is known for its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a deeper, fuller sound profile. This results in a duller and rounder sound during typing. However, the Dareu Snow takes it a step further with its POK top housing, which not only provides a smooth typing experience but also offers exceptional durability and wear resistance. The POK material contributes to a clacky sound profile that is both smooth and robust.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Cherry MX Red and Dareu Snow switches use nylon as well. Similarly to the top housing, nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This shared material choice indicates that both switches aim to provide a consistent typing experience throughout the entire switch. However, while the MX Red's nylon bottom housing provides a classic switch housing material, the Dareu Snow's nylon bottom housing offers the same sound profile but may lack the additional durability and wear resistance found in its POK top housing.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Cherry MX Red and the Dareu Snow switches highlight the unique qualities each switch brings to the table. While both switches share the use of nylon in their housing materials and offer a similar deep and full sound profile during typing, the Dareu Snow's use of POK material in its top housing sets it apart in terms of smoothness, durability, and shock resistance. This difference in materials may result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Dareu Snow potentially offering a more robust and long-lasting option for users seeking a reliable and clacky typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is evident that there are some notable differences between the two. The Cherry MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Snow with a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cherry MX Red lacks this information while the Dareu Snow has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Dareu Snow requires more force to fully press the key down compared to the Cherry MX Red. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Cherry MX Red would be the better option, while those who prefer a slightly heavier typing feel may lean towards the Dareu Snow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red 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 Red is the longer of the two, providing a more traditional key press feel with a slightly deeper travel distance. On the other hand, the Snow offers a shorter travel distance, making it popular among gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of common travel distances, with the Snow being slightly on the shallower side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Cherry MX Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch also boasts a thocky sound with a low-pitched tone, but additionally offers a neutral sound profile suitable for various uses. The Snow switch might provide a slightly deeper sound signature due to its innovative use of POK material in the construction.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch stands out for its textured feel, which can add a subtle friction element to the typing experience. On the contrary, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy feel, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the overall typing sensation. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback that can cater to different preferences, with the MX Red focusing on texture while the Snow prioritizes a bouncier keystroke.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a satisfying thocky sound and low-pitched tones, both the Cherry MX Red and Dareu Snow switches can deliver excellent results. While the MX Red offers a slightly heftier feel and textured feedback, the Snow switch brings a smoother keystroke with a bouncy sensation. Depending on whether you prefer a deeper sound or a more neutral sound profile, you can choose between the two switches to customize your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide reliable performance and can enhance your typing experience with their unique qualities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, along with a smooth linear switch option, the Cherry MX Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for an innovative switch with a unique sound signature and a bouncy, spring-like feedback sensation, then the Dareu Snow switch could be the optimal selection. Consider your typing preferences, whether you prioritize a deeper sound or a bouncier feel, and make your decision based on what will enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer their own set of advantages, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing needs.
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