Outemu Silver vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Outemu Silver and the Dareu Snow, both linear switches. The Silver is known for its straightforward design and smooth keystrokes, making it a popular choice for users who prefer a linear feel without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is distinctive for its innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature when typing. The Snow switch is also noted for its 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy' characteristics. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, they have different qualities that may appeal to different types of users. 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
1.60 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silver and the Dareu Snow, it's clear that they both offer unique characteristics to enhance the overall typing experience. The Silver's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, which is ideal for those looking for a more crisp sound when typing. In contrast, the Snow's POK top housing is known for its smooth and durable qualities, offering a clacky feel that is sure to satisfy users looking for a sturdy switch. While both materials have their own strengths, the polycarbonate and POK top housings cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Silver and the Snow utilize nylon material to create a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. This classic switch housing material absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is pleasing to the ears. Despite both switches using nylon for their bottom housings, the overall typing experience may still vary due to other factors such as the keycap material and switch design. However, it is clear that the nylon bottom housing contributes to a satisfying sound profile for both the Outemu Silver and the Dareu Snow switches.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Silver and the Dareu Snow may have differences in their top housing materials (polycarbonate vs. POK) and identical bottom housing materials (nylon), they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile from the Silver's polycarbonate top housing or a smooth, clacky feel from the Snow's POK top housing, there is something for everyone to appreciate in these switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Silver and the Dareu Snow will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Weight
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Snow linear switch with an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Silver switch is heavier at 65 grams while the Snow switch requires 60 grams. The Silver switch provides a slightly lighter typing experience for those who prefer less resistance, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Snow switch offers a more substantial push feel, making it ideal for users who prefer a slightly heavier keystroke. Both switches fall in the medium range of actuation and bottom out forces, providing a balanced typing experience that should satisfy most users.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silver 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 Silver switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Snow switch provides a shallower travel distance, making it more suitable for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Silver switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Silver 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 Silver linear switch is known for being relatively quiet with a neutral and low-pitched profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a thocky sound with a deeper and more satisfying tone due to its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem. The Snow switch provides a more distinct and pronounced sound experience, especially for those who enjoy a deeper and richer typing acoustics.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Silver switch does not have a specific descriptor while the Dareu Snow switch is characterized as bouncy. Bouncy switches typically offer a spring-like feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively and responsive feel with a rebound effect when pressed. This feature can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a more dynamic and tactile feel while typing.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silver and Dareu Snow linear switches offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. If you enjoy a quiet and neutral sound profile with a smooth typing experience, the Silver switch may be more suitable. However, if you prefer a deeper and more satisfying sound accompanied by a bouncy and responsive feel, the Snow switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience depending on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams and a more traditional typing experience, the Outemu Silver linear switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a deeper sound signature, the Dareu Snow linear switch with its innovative use of POK material may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the bottom out force, sound, or unique materials used in the switch's construction. Consider your typing preferences and desired typing experience when choosing between these two switches.
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