Dareu Holly vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean. The Dareu Holly switch is a tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force, providing a unique sound signature that balances both chirpy and clacky elements, appealing to users seeking a distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is a linear switch with a quiet operation, perfect for those looking for a smooth and silent typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
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
Both the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches offer similar characteristics with their polycarbonate top housings.
On the other hand, the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean differ in their bottom housings. The Holly boasts a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Silent Ocean also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar experience with a more rounded and dull sound. Despite the difference in bottom housing materials, both switches provide a unique typing experience with their nylon bottom housings.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean respectively, results in a balanced typing experience. The top housing affects the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. While both switches offer distinct qualities due to their housing materials, they both provide a satisfying typing experience with a mix of sharp, crisp sound from the polycarbonate top housing and a fuller, deeper sound from the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, it is evident that the Holly has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Dustproof Silent Ocean is heavier at 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the Holly is unknown. The Holly offers a lighter typing experience with a slightly higher actuation force but lacks information on its bottom out force. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Holly has a longer travel distance compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. The Holly's 4 mm travel distance makes it ideal for those who prefer a more deliberate key press with a deeper travel feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's shorter 3.3 mm travel distance is preferred by gamers for its faster response time. Both switches offer a smooth key press experience, but the Holly provides a slightly longer travel distance for those who enjoy a more tactile feel, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a shorter travel distance for quicker input actions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean comes in at $3.10 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
While the Dareu Holly switch is known for its chirpy and clacky sound profile, which offers a unique typing experience, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any specific sound description available. This suggests that the Holly switch may provide a more distinct auditory experience compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard enclosure and keycaps used.
In regard to the tactile feel, information on the Holly and Dustproof Silent Ocean switches is not provided. Therefore, it is difficult to directly compare the subjective qualities of the two switches in terms of typing feel.
Overall, if we consider the available information, the Dareu Holly tactile switch seems to offer a more unique and distinctive sound profile compared to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch. However, without specific details on typing feel, it is challenging to determine which switch may provide a better tactile experience. For those seeking a tactile switch with a chirpy and clacky sound, the Holly switch may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if a silent linear switch is desired, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch could still offer a satisfactory typing experience. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in deciding which switch is the best fit for individual users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a unique sound signature with a medium 50g actuation force, the Holly switch would be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy 65g actuation force and a silent typing experience, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision will depend on whether you prioritize typing feel or sound characteristics in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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