Kailh Sage vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Sage and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Sage and Dareu Snow offer unique typing experiences. The Kailh Sage is a clicky switch best known for its sharp and crunchy typing experience. With a heavy weight and distinct clickiness, the Sage switch is invigorating to type on. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow is a linear switch that utilizes POK material for a smooth typing experience with a deeper sound signature. Categorized as thocky, neutral, low-pitched, and bouncy, the Snow switch provides a different feel compared to the Sage. Each switch has its own advantages, but ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference. 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
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials of the Kailh Sage and Dareu Snow switches provide different characteristics and benefits to the overall feel and sound of the switches. The Sage's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Snow's POK top housing, which contributes to smooth, clacky, and durable switches. Polycarbonate's stiffness leads to a clear and resonant sound, while POK's coefficient of friction makes it one of the smoothest materials available. Both materials are excellent choices for switch housings, but the Sage's polycarbonate top housing may provide a more distinct sound profile suitable for those who prefer a sharper sound, while the Snow's POK top housing offers smoothness and durability.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Sage and Snow switches utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Despite the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing, each switch may offer a slightly different feel and sound when pressed due to other factors such as stem design and spring weight. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures a consistent sound profile in terms of depth and fullness, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying typing experience with both switches.
The combination of different housing materials in the Sage and Snow switches allows for a balance of characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. While the Sage's polycarbonate top housing may emphasize a sharper and crisper sound upon key release, the Snow's POK top housing prioritizes smoothness and durability. Similarly, the use of nylon in both switches' bottom housings ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Ultimately, choosing between the Sage and Snow switches may depend on personal preferences regarding sound, smoothness, and durability, as each housing material brings its own unique qualities to the overall switch design.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch reveal some key differences. The Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Snow's 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Snow is 50 grams, while the Sage does not have a specified actuation force. This means that the Snow requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Sage. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Snow may be the better option. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the Sage's heavier bottom out force may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Kailh Sage clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, whereas the Dareu Snow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of popular travel distances, with the Sage being slightly longer than the Snow. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Snow for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Sage. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for key responsiveness and 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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers a crunchy typing experience, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a deeper and richer thocky sound profile, with a low-pitched tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Depending on personal preference, the Sage switch may be preferred for its sharp clickiness, while the Snow switch appeals to those looking for a more satisfying thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Sage switch offers an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel. The sharp tactile bump of the Sage switch provides a distinct tactile sensation with each keypress. Conversely, the Dareu Snow linear switch delivers a bouncy feel, giving a spring-like feedback sensation that provides rebound when keys are pressed. Those who enjoy a more immersive and snappy typing experience may opt for the Sage switch, while the Snow switch offers a livelier and bouncier feel.
Considering all available information, it is evident that the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Sage switch provides a sharp and crunchy clicky sound with an invigorating tactile feedback, while the Snow switch offers a deep and thocky sound with a bouncy and lively feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, with both switches offering unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a heavy and sharp clicky feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Sage switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and deeper sound with a medium bottom out force, the Snow switch with its innovative POK material construction may be more appealing. Both switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what type of typing sensation you find most satisfying. Choose wisely based on your preferences and needs for a truly enjoyable typing experience.
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