Dareu Holly vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and the SP-Star Meteor Orange are two popular options to consider, both falling under the tactile switch category. The Dareu Holly switch is praised for its medium 50g actuation force and unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are known for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, offering a soft and seductive typing experience. While the Holly switch caters to users looking for a bit of both chirpy and clacky feedback, the Meteor Orange switch provides a more subtle and polished typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and SP-Star Meteor Orange both utilize different housing materials for their switches. The Holly features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange uses a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the Holly's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers a more muffled and round sound quality. Both housing materials have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Dareu Holly and SP-Star Meteor Orange utilize nylon as the material of choice. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. The bottom housing of both switches contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel, creating a more impactful and satisfying typing experience. While the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience, providing a solid base for the keystrokes.
While the Holly and the Meteor Orange may have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their respective housing materials. The Holly's polycarbonate top housing produces a clear and resonant sound, while the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing in both switches contributes to a more absorbent and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Holly has none specified while the Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is considered medium-light. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Holly for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may enjoy the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Meteor Orange for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches offer similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness due to their identical travel distances. Therefore, users can expect a consistent typing experience whether using the Dareu Holly or the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
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 Dareu Holly tactile switch stands out with its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a distinctive typing experience for users seeking a balanced auditory feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a softer and more neutral sound profile, described as gentle and seductive, with a touch of thocky richness upon actuation. Both switches provide a pleasant typing sound, but the Holly offers a more pronounced and dynamic sound profile compared to the more subdued sound of the Meteor Orange.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Holly tactile switch information is not provided, so we focus on the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. The gentle tactility of the Meteor Orange switch, combined with its polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel, results in a comfortable typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users. Without specific information on the feel of the Dareu Holly switch, it can be assumed that both switches provide a satisfactory typing experience, with the Meteor Orange offering a softer touch compared to the unknown qualities of the Holly.
In conclusion, the Dareu Holly tactile switch excels in providing a unique and distinctive sound signature with its chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to users looking for a more dynamic auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a gentle and seductive sound profile, along with a mild and polished feel for comfortable typing. While both switches have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, depending on their preferences for sound and tactility. Ultimately, both the Dareu Holly and SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switches are solid choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for quality switches with distinct characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique typing experience with a balanced sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, then the Dareu Holly tactile switch with its medium 50g actuation force would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle and soft tactile feel with a neutral sound profile that is approachable to most users, then the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch with its 57g bottom out force would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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