Gateron Aliaz vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the Dareu Master linear switch, it becomes clear that both switches offer unique advantages depending on the user's preferences. The Aliaz switch is designed for quiet environments such as offices, providing a medium-heavy weight that delivers a substantial feel to each keystroke. This makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy a pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch offers a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation due to its all-POM linear construction. While the Aliaz is more muted and silky, the Master is clacky and mild. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Dareu Master, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles based on their respective polycarbonate and POM materials. The Aliaz's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Master's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, giving users a different tactile feedback compared to the Aliaz. While both materials have their own distinct characteristics, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Aliaz and the Master continue to showcase the differences in their housing materials. The Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing mirrors the qualities of its top housing, providing a sharp and crisp sound profile that complements the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Master's POM bottom housing offers a deeper and more muted sound, emphasizing a different tactile feedback for users. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both switches aim to deliver a comfortable typing experience through their unique housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the Dareu Master ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the Aliaz's polycarbonate housing materials create a sharper and clearer sound profile, the Master's POM housing materials offer a deeper and more muted sound. Whether you prioritize a crisp typing experience or a more subtle feedback, both switches provide quality housing materials that contribute to an enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of comfort and performance from both switches, despite the nuanced differences in their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz is the heavier option. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Dareu Master has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. However, the bottom out force of the Dareu Master is unknown, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of heaviness to the Aliaz. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Aliaz has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Dareu Master due to its shorter travel distance, ideal for quick and precise typing or gaming. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Gateron Aliaz may appeal to individuals who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted typing experience, ideal for quiet environments such as offices where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a clacky sound signature, perfect for those who enjoy a crisp and sharp sound when typing. Depending on the user's preference for sound, both switches offer distinct auditory feedback to cater to different needs.
In terms of feel, the Aliaz switch is praised for its silky and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined keypress that minimizes resistance and enhances overall typing comfort. Similarly, the Dareu Master linear switch also boasts a polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction for a sleek typing experience. While the Aliaz switch leans towards a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Master switch provides a gentler typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Aliaz excels in providing a quiet and substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy weight, while the Master offers a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness with its all-POM linear design. Both switches deliver polished keyfeel that enhances typing comfort, making them suitable choices for users seeking a refined typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two will come down to personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the Dareu Master linear switch, keep in mind the environment you will be using the keyboard in and your preference for typing feedback and sound. If you prioritize a quiet typing experience in a professional setting, the Aliaz switches with their medium-heavy weight and muted sound may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a classic clacky sound and smooth typing experience, the Master linear switches offer a medium weight and polished feel that may suit your preferences better. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific characteristics that you value in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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