Bsun Olive vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Olive tactile switch to the Dareu Snow linear switch, some key differences and similarities emerge. The Bsun Olive switch is lauded for its all-POM construction, delivering a resonant and deep sound that enhances the typing experience. With pronounced tactile feedback and a unique long pole stem design, users can expect a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out and a distinct tactile feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch utilizes innovative POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a smooth linear action and a deeper sound signature. While the Olive switch is 'Accented,' 'Invigorating,' 'Sharp,' and 'Snappy,' the Snow switch is 'Thocky,' 'Neutral,' 'Low-pitched,' and 'Bouncy.' When choosing between the two switches, one might prefer the Olive for its tactile feedback and unique design, while opting for the Snow for its smooth linear action and deep sound. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Bsun Olive and the Dareu Snow both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles and durability. The Olive features POM top and bottom housings, which create a pleasing deep sound that is relatively muted. In contrast, the Snow utilizes POK for its top housing, providing a smooth and clacky sound profile that is highly durable and shock-resistant. While both materials offer different sound profiles, they both focus on creating a unique typing experience for users.
In terms of durability, the Dareu Snow's POK material outshines the Bsun Olive's POM material. With wear resistance 14 times stronger than POM and shock resistance surpassing Nylon by 2.3 times, the Snow's top housing is built to last. On the other hand, the Olive's POM bottom housing offers a similar sound profile to its top housing, creating a consistent typing experience across the board. While the Snow's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile, the Olive's POM material maintains a consistent deep and pleasing sound.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the choice between the Bsun Olive and the Dareu Snow ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the Snow's POK material provides a smooth and clacky typing experience with unmatched durability, the Olive's POM material offers a more muted and deep sound profile. Additionally, the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switch should be taken into consideration. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, making them both solid choices for users seeking a specialized typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch both fall within the medium range, offering a balanced typing experience. The Olive has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Snow's 50 grams, making it slightly easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the Olive has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Snow's 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when fully pressing down. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Olive may be the more suitable option, while the Snow may cater to individuals who desire a bit more resistance for a more defined keypress. Overall, both switches offer a solid balance between actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a variety of typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Olive tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Snow switch for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may prefer the slightly longer travel distance of the Olive switch. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 Bsun Olive tactile switch is best known for its resonant, deep sound due to the all-POM housing. It delivers a satisfying auditory experience, especially with its pronounced tactile feedback and sharp bottom-out. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as having a thocky sound profile, producing a deep and rich sound when pressed. Both switches offer a unique sound experience, with the Olive providing a deeper tone while the Snow offers a thocky sound signature.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Olive tactile switch is characterized by its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, creating a sharp and snappy typing sensation. The pronounced feedback and moderate actuation force make typing on the Olive switch highly immersive. In contrast, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feel with rebound when pressed. While the Olive offers a more tactile and sharp typing experience, the Snow switch focuses on a bouncy and responsive feel.
Overall, the Bsun Olive tactile switch and Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Olive switch provides a deep and resonant sound with an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback, while the Snow switch offers a thocky sound profile and a bouncy typing experience. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches excel in different aspects of the typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced tactile feedback experience, the Bsun Olive switch would be an excellent choice for you. The unique design and long pole stem of the Olive provide a satisfying feel and satisfying sound during use. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a deep sound signature, the Dareu Snow switch would be a great option for you. The POK material used in the Snow switch offers a different typing experience compared to the Olive. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and a resonant sound (Olive) or prefer a smooth linear feel with a deeper sound (Snow).
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