Outemu Black vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and Dareu Snow both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Black is a linear switch that is best known for its simplicity and smooth keystrokes. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow stands out with its innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature while typing. The Snow switch is also categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. While the Black switch may appeal to those looking for a straightforward typing experience, the Snow switch offers a more distinctive feel and 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
65g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
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
The Outemu Black and Dareu Snow both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material is also ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky sound, with exceptional durability and wear resistance. While both housings offer unique benefits, the polycarbonate top housing of the Black emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the POK top housing of the Snow focuses on smoothness and longevity.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Outemu Black and Dareu Snow utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for producing a deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The impact of the bottom housing is particularly noticeable during bottom-out, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, while the Outemu Black and Dareu Snow share similar bottom housing materials in nylon, they offer distinct differences in their top housings. The polycarbonate top housing of the Black emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the POK top housing of the Snow prioritizes smoothness and durability. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a smooth clacky feel, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences in typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and durability in a mechanical switch.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the Outemu Black requires 82 grams of force, making it heavier than the Dareu Snow, which only needs 60 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Snow switch would be the better option as it requires less force to both actuate and bottom out. However, if a more substantial typing experience is preferred, the Black switch would be the choice due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with the Black switch providing a heavier typing feel and the Snow switch offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Outemu Black offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper press when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow offers a shallower press, which may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches have their advantages, with the Outemu Black offering a more substantial keystroke and the Dareu Snow providing a faster and more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and desired typing feel.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for its quiet operation, lacking any specific defining characteristics. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch is recognized for its thocky sound profile, offering a deeper and more satisfying sound experience while typing. The innovative use of POK material in the Snow switch contributes to this unique sound signature, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a richer and more bass-heavy typing sound.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Black switch is known for its tactile feedback, providing a precise and controlled typing experience without any specific descriptors highlighting its feel. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, offering a spring-like and elastic sensation when typing. This bouncy feel can add a sense of liveliness to your typing experience, providing a subtle rebound effect that some users may find enjoyable.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a quiet operation and precise feel, the Outemu Black may be a suitable option. However, if you prefer a switch with a deeper and more satisfying sound profile along with a bouncy and lively feel, the Dareu Snow switch could be a better choice for you. Keep in mind that personal preferences play a significant role in determining the ideal switch for your typing needs, and experimenting with different switches on various keyboards can help you find the perfect match for your typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a heavy switch with a bottom out force of 82 grams, consider choosing the Outemu Black linear switch. This switch is best known for its heavy actuation force and is suitable for those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. On the other hand, if you are seeking a smoother typing experience with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams and a deeper sound profile, the Dareu Snow linear switch may be the better option for you. The Snow switch stands out with its innovative use of POK material and provides a bouncy feedback sensation when typing. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Choose wisely based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for you.
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