Huano Sakura vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Huano Sakura and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often weigh the characteristics of different options to find their ideal typing experience. The Huano Sakura switch is celebrated for its feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making it an excellent choice for those who spend long hours typing, providing a comfortable and efficient experience without overwhelming the senses. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is recognized for its unique construction using POK material for both the housing and stem, resulting in a deeper sound signature that appeals to users seeking a smooth, thocky typing experience that feels both neutral and bouncy. While both switches offer linear responses favored by gamers and typists alike, their distinct auditory and tactile profiles cater to differing preferences. 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
35g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Huano Sakura and the Dareu Snow switches display a remarkable similarity, particularly in their top housing, both of which are crafted from POK (polyketone) material. This shared composition ensures that both switches offer a consistent typing experience characterized by smoothness and durability. With a coefficient of friction of 0.04, the POK top housing contributes to an exceptionally fluid feel during key presses. In terms of resilience, both switches demonstrate impressive wear and shock resistance, exceeding nylon and POM materials. Consequently, users can expect a similarly clacky sound profile and an overall robust performance from both the Sakura and Snow switches.
In contrast, both the Huano Sakura and the Dareu Snow utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This classic switch housing material is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, with softer plastic properties that absorb sound effectively. This characteristic results in a duller and rounder acoustic quality when typing, which enhances the overall sound experience of the switches. Despite the differences in brand names, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing means that users can expect comparable acoustics and feel during operation, regardless of the switch chosen.
When considering how these materials influence the overall attributes of each switch, it is essential to recognize the interaction between the top and bottom housings. Since both the Sakura and Snow switches utilize the same POK material above, users will encounter a consistent tactile response when pressing down on the keys. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing in both switches similarly contributes to the sound and feel of the bottom-out experience. Therefore, the synergistic effects of these materials lead to a blended typing experience where the enduring qualities of the POK top combine seamlessly with the acoustic benefits of the nylon bottom, ultimately delivering a satisfying performance across both models.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or prolonged gaming sessions. In contrast, the Snow switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, catering to users who favor a more substantial touch and feedback when typing. This means that the Sakura promotes quicker actuation with less effort, while the Snow switch offers a firmer response, which can enhance typing satisfaction for those seeking a stronger push feel. Overall, while both switches serve specific preferences, the Sakura is lighter and designed for comfort over long durations, whereas the Snow appeals to those who appreciate a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, the Sakura features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Snow has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that if you prefer a more pronounced keypress with some added depth, the Sakura would be the more suitable choice due to its longer travel distance. On the other hand, if you're looking for a quicker response time and a more abrupt feel, the Snow's shorter travel distance might appeal to you. Ultimately, the Sakura offers a more traditional and hearty depth, while the Snow caters to the modern trend of faster, more responsive gaming switches.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 Huano Sakura switch is known for its medium acoustics, making it a balanced option for those who prefer a moderate auditory response while typing. This switch is designed for an overall pleasant sound experience, suitable for extended typing sessions without overwhelming distractions. In contrast, the Dareu Snow switch boasts a deeper sound signature thanks to its innovative POK material used in both the top housing and stem. Users can expect a thocky characteristic, producing that deep, satisfying "thud" or soft "knock" sound, which many enthusiasts find appealing. The Snow switch also maintains a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting.
Regarding feel, the Sakura switch delivers a feather-light touch that is exceptionally accommodating for long periods of use, promoting comfort and minimizing fatigue during extended typing. However, the specific tactile feedback of the Sakura is not detailed. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy sensation that provides an elastic feedback feeling. This lively rebound upon key press gives users a more dynamic typing experience, enhancing the overall enjoyment while using the keyboard.
In conclusion, while both switches cater to different preferences, they each offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. The Sakura is ideal for those seeking a lightweight and comfortable option with medium sound, making it a solid choice for prolonged use. Meanwhile, the Snow switch's deeper thocky sound and bouncy feel will appeal to users who prioritize a richer auditory experience and a lively feedback sensation. Depending on your specific needs, you may find satisfactory results with either switch, as they each possess attributes that can cater to both casual and more experienced typists.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Huano Sakura linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch, consider the type of experience you desire in your typing or gaming sessions. If you prefer a feather-light touch that allows for prolonged typing with minimal finger fatigue, the Sakura's 45-gram bottom out force makes it an excellent choice, especially for extensive use where comfort is key. Its medium sound profile offers a balanced auditory experience that won't overwhelm your surroundings, making it well-suited for both work and casual environments. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more tactile and engaging experience, the Snow switch with its 60-gram actuation force provides a bouncier feel that can enhance your keystrokes. The thocky sound signature delivers a deeper auditory feedback that some users find satisfying, particularly in quieter spaces or when aiming for a more mechanical soundscape. Ultimately, your choice depends on whether you prioritize a lightweight, comfortable typing experience or a more pronounced audio and tactile feedback during your key presses.
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