Dareu Holly vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Holly and Kailh Plum switches stand out as popular choices, each offering its own unique characteristics. The Dareu Holly switch is known for its medium 50g actuation force and distinctive sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a hefty feel without a huge tactile bump, setting it apart from other tactile switches. The Plum switch's sound profile is neutral and enjoyable, making it a favored option for those seeking a different tactile experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately depends on what you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
The Dareu Holly and the Kailh Plum both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. Both switches offer similar characteristics in terms of sound and aesthetics due to their shared polycarbonate top housing material.
While the top housing of both switches is made from polycarbonate, the bottom housing material differs between the Dareu Holly and the Kailh Plum. The Holly features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Plum's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. The choice of bottom housing material can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, with nylon contributing to a more subdued typing experience compared to the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate.
The split between the top and bottom housings in the Dareu Holly and Kailh Plum allows for a combination of qualities to be experienced when using the switches. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the typing experience. Conversely, the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. By utilizing different materials for the top and bottom housings, manufacturers are able to fine-tune the acoustic properties of the switches to cater to the preferences of users seeking a specific typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Kailh Plum switch has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, while the bottom out force of the Holly switch is unavailable. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Holly switch may be the preferred option, as the lower actuation force allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the Holly has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Plum's 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Holly being on the longer side and the Plum slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Plum with its shorter travel distance for faster response times, while those who appreciate a deeper key press may opt for the Holly. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 Holly switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, creating a distinctive typing experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch provides a neutral and enjoyable sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various scenarios. Both switches offer different sound experiences, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly switch's characteristics in this aspect are unknown. In contrast, the Kailh Plum switch is described as offering a mild and stepped typing experience. The mild feel of the Plum switch provides a gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users, while the stepped design adds a unique tactile element with a two-stage feel. Again, the choice between these switches would come down to individual preferences for typing feel.
Overall, the Dareu Holly and Kailh Plum switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Holly switch stands out for its unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, while the Plum switch provides a more neutral sound profile. When it comes to feel, the Plum switch offers a mild and stepped typing experience, while the specifics of the Holly switch's feel are unknown. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your keyboard switch selection, both the Dareu Holly and Kailh Plum switches have something unique to offer that can cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches firsthand would provide the best insight into which one would be the ideal choice for your typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, the Dareu Holly switch with its 50g actuation force would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a neutral sound profile and a mild feel that offers a gentle typing experience, then the Kailh Plum switch with its 70g bottom out force would be the better option. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should depend on your preference for sound, actuation force, and typing experience.
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