Dareu Snow vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Dareu Snow and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Snow linear switch with the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, both offer smooth typing experiences with their linear design. The Snow stands out with its innovative use of POK material for a deeper sound signature, while the Yellow Silver is known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, ideal for quick and responsive typing. The Snow is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy', whereas the Yellow Silver is categorized as 'Neutral'. Depending on whether you prioritize a deeper sound signature or a light actuation force with neutrality, you may prefer one switch over the other. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Snow features a top housing made of POK material, known for its smoothness, durability, and shock resistance, resulting in switches that are both smooth and clacky. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound. While both materials offer durability, they produce different sound profiles, with POK material emphasizing smoothness and clackiness, and polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Snow and the Yellow Silver use nylon, a classic switch housing material that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, despite having different top housings, both switches offer a similar sound experience due to the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing. This consistency in material helps maintain the overall sound profile of the switches, enhancing the typing experience for users who prefer a deeper and fuller sound.
While the top and bottom housings of the Dareu Snow and the Outemu Yellow Silver have distinct material compositions, the overall typing experience is influenced by both components. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their respective housing materials contributing to the overall sound profile. Whether users prefer the smoothness and durability of POK material in the Snow or the sharper and crisper sound profile of polycarbonate in the Yellow Silver, each switch offers a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Snow linear switch to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are some noticeable differences in actuation and bottom out forces. The Snow has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Yellow Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Snow switch requires a slightly heavier touch to trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the Yellow Silver switch, making it the heavier option of the two. For those who prefer a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel, the Dareu Snow switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if a lighter touch is preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style, with the Snow switch providing a heavier feel and the Yellow Silver switch offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch's 4 mm travel distance. The Snow switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Yellow Silver switch's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deeper key press. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Snow switch being shorter and the Yellow Silver switch being longer, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press 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 Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 Dareu Snow linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, giving a deep and satisfying auditory experience to the user. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch provides a more neutral sound profile, which is suitable for a wide range of users, especially those looking for a balance between keypress noise and responsiveness. Both switches offer different sound qualities that cater to varying preferences, so selecting the one that best suits your needs depends on your personal preference for sound.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Snow switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds to the typing experience. However, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is unavailable. This means that if you prefer a bouncy and lively feel while typing, the Snow switch might be the better choice for you.
Overall, when comparing the Dareu Snow linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that they offer different sound profiles and potentially different tactile feels. The Snow switch is known for its deep and thocky sound, as well as its bouncy feel, while the Yellow Silver switch provides a neutral sound profile, catering to a wider audience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel while typing. If you are looking for a similar typing experience with either switch, consider factors such as keycaps and the keyboard itself to achieve your desired results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Snow linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a deeper sound signature and a medium-bottom out force, the Snow switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, especially for gaming or typing purposes, the Yellow Silver switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different needs, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences and intended usage.
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