Kailh Box Royal vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and the Dareu Master represent two different ends of the spectrum in terms of feel and sound. The Box Royal is a tactile switch known for its sharp, binary tactility that offers an almost aggressive feedback to the user. On the other hand, the Dareu Master is a linear switch made entirely of POM, providing a medium weight feel with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. If you prefer a higher pitched, extremely tactile typing experience, the Box Royal could be the right choice for you. Conversely, if you enjoy a polished, clacky sound with a smoother keypress, the Dareu Master may be more suited to your 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and Dareu Master switches both offer unique sound profiles, but they do so in slightly different ways. The Box Royal's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Master's POM top housing also produces a deep and muted sound, but with a more unique tone. While both materials offer a deep sound, the Box Royal's nylon may provide a duller and rounder sound compared to the Master's POM.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Kailh Box Royal and Dareu Master switches utilize similar materials to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Box Royal and POM bottom housing of the Master both contribute to the overall sound of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press. Despite using different materials, both switches aim to create a similar sound experience for the user, emphasizing depth and fullness in their sound profiles.
Overall, the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and Dareu Master switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Box Royal's nylon housing may create a slightly duller and rounder sound compared to the Master's POM housing, both switches aim to deliver a deep and full sound experience. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, each component plays a crucial role in shaping the overall sound of the switch, offering users a tactile and auditory experience that is distinct to each switch's design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Box Royal has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Master's bottom out force is unknown. This means that typing on the Box Royal will require more force to fully press the key compared to the Master switch. This difference in weight can cater to different preferences, with the Box Royal providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier touch, while the Master may be more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter keystroke for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the weight of the switch can significantly impact the typing experience and should be taken into consideration when choosing a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them ideal choices for gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to most users, so the overall feel of the switches will likely be similar. However, those who prefer a slightly deeper key press may find the Box Royal more to their liking, while those who prefer a quicker, more responsive press may prefer the Dareu Master. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Royal 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch offers a high-pitched sound profile, which provides a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch has a clacky sound signature, producing a sharp, snappy sound that is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches offer distinct sound experiences, with the Box Royal delivering a higher-pitched tone and the Master providing a classic clacky sound.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent with each keypress. In contrast, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with a more gentle feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. The Master switch's smooth and refined finish results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal switch stands out for its aggressive tactility and high-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for users seeking a distinct tactile experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a medium weight and clacky sound signature, providing a smooth and polished typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a sharp, aggressive tactility with a high-pitched sound or a smooth, clacky typing experience with a polished feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are a newcomer looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a nearly aggressive and sharp tactility, as well as a higher-pitched sound profile, then the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a classic clacky sound signature, exceptional smoothness in operation, and a more gentle typing experience in terms of feel, then the Dareu Master linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.
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