Dareu Snow vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°

Overview

When comparing the Dareu Snow linear switch to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Snow switch is praised for its deeper sound signature and the innovative use of POK material in both the top housing and stem, giving it a 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', 'Bouncy' feel. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° by Gateron stands out for its revolutionary self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While both switches excel in their own rights, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Snow Linear

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$7.78

$5.76 per 10

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Snow and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, we can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Snow features a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, while the Zero Degree 0° opts for a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a clearer and more resonant sound profile. On the other hand, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches aim to enhance sound quality through the use of high-quality materials.

When it comes to the material used for the top housing, the Dareu Snow's POK material and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate material offer distinct advantages. The POK material provides a smooth and clacky feel, while the polycarbonate material creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the POK material is known for its exceptional durability, surpassing Nylon shock resistance by 2.3 times. On the other hand, polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Both materials have their unique strengths, catering to different preferences in typing experience.

In terms of the bottom housing material, both switches utilize nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Whether it's the Snow's nylon bottom housing or the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing, the use of this classic material enhances the typing experience by providing a more satisfying sound profile. While the top housing may impact the sound when pressing down or letting go of a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Snow linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Snow has a slightly higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Zero Degree's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Snow requires 60 grams while the Zero Degree's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Snow switch is slightly heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Zero Degree may be a better option due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the Snow switch may be preferred by those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier force requirement. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.

Travel distance

The Dareu Snow linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Snow has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Generally, a shorter travel distance means faster response times, which is favored by gamers. However, some may find shorter distances to feel abrupt. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper key press. In this case, the Snow switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0° switch. The Snow switch would offer quicker responsiveness, while the Zero Degree 0° switch would offer a slightly deeper key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Dareu Snow linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience, providing a deeper and more resonant sound compared to other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its silent typing capabilities, absorbing sound and reducing noise with its unique design features. Both switches offer different sound profiles catering to different preferences, with the Snow providing a deeper sound while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on a quieter typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Dareu Snow linear switch is described as bouncy, offering a lively and spring-like feedback sensation when typing. This can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a more responsive feel when pressing the keys. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not provided, making it difficult to compare the two in this aspect. Despite this, both switches are likely to provide a smooth and stable typing experience, with the Snow offering a more bouncy feel.

Overall, the Dareu Snow linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Snow provides a deeper and more resonant sound, along with a bouncy typing feel, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent typing and stability. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking to explore different switch options in the mechanical keyboard world. However, it's important to consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard build when determining the final sound and feel outcome.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Snow linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound profile along with a bouncy feel, then the Dareu Snow switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with no bottom out force and prioritize a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel, then the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your individual typing preferences and priorities.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Snow Linear

$7.78

$5.76 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Zero Degree 0° Linear

$6.50

$5.50 per 10

Learn more