Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and Dareu Snow offer distinct experiences for users. The Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch, while the Snow is a linear switch. The Dustproof Brown is best known for its durability, as the name suggests, but beyond that, it is categorized as a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material for both the top housing and stem, resulting in a smoother, more unique typing experience. The Snow switch is categorized as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy, offering a deeper sound signature compared to the Dustproof Brown. When choosing between these two switches, one may lean towards the Dustproof Brown for its durability and tactile feedback, or opt for the Snow for its smoother typing experience and distinct 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Dareu Snow, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. This means that they will both offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. However, the Snow stands out with its POK top housing, which provides an exceptionally smooth and durable experience compared to the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate. This difference in materials may result in a slightly different typing experience for users seeking a specific sound and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches use nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The absorption properties of nylon make typing on these switches produce a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. In this aspect, the housing materials of the Dustproof Brown and the Snow are quite similar, giving users a consistent typing experience when it comes to the bottom housing of the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a mechanical switch can significantly impact the typing experience. While both the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Dareu Snow offer nylon bottom housings for similar sound profiles, the differences in the top housing materials set them apart. The Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing provides a clear and resonant sound, while the Snow's POK top housing contributes to a smooth and clacky feel. Choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and durability based on the different housing materials used.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, it is clear that the Dustproof Brown requires a lighter actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Snow's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown is heavier at 65 grams, while the Snow is lighter at 60 grams. Overall, the Dustproof Brown provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, whereas the Snow offers a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches fall within the medium weight category, but the Dustproof Brown leans towards the heavier side, providing a more tactile typing experience, while the Snow offers a smoother and lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Snow switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Brown switch. For those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Snow switch would be the ideal choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, with the shorter distance providing a quicker response and the longer distance offering a more tactile typing experience.
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 Dustproof Brown 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 Dustproof Brown switch is known for its lack of specific characteristics. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is recognized for its thocky sound profile, meaning it produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. This can be attributed to the innovative use of POK material in the switch components, resulting in a deeper sound signature compared to the neutral and low-pitched sound qualities associated with the Dustproof Brown switch.
Moving on to feel, the Dustproof Brown switch does not have any specific descriptors to characterize its tactile feedback. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation and lively feel when typing. This bouncy feedback can enhance the typing experience by offering rebound when keys are pressed, creating a tactile sensation that may be preferred by some users.
Taking into consideration the information available, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch offer distinctive subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Brown switch lacks specific characteristics in sound and feel, the Dareu Snow switch stands out with its thocky sound profile and bouncy tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences, users may gravitate towards the deeper sound and bouncy feel of the Snow switch, while those looking for a more neutral and unknown experience may find the Dustproof Brown switch suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a tactile feedback, the Dustproof Brown may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother linear switch with a medium bottom out force and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Dareu Snow switch would be the ideal choice. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to consider these factors before making your decision. Happy typing!
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