Everglide Crystal Violet vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch to the Dareu Master linear switch, it's important to note that the Crystal Violet is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a light operating force of 45g. The sound profile of the Crystal Violet switches is described as pleasantly mellow and low-pitched, perfect for those who prefer a subtle auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a medium weight for users seeking a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. While the Crystal Violet is categorized as ['Creamy', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Stepped'], the Master is categorized as ['Clacky', 'Mild', 'Polished']. Each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles, providing unique advantages for those seeking a specific feel and sound. 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
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
ABS
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
ABS
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Everglide Crystal Violet and the Dareu Master both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles when typing. The Crystal Violet's ABS top housing provides a low-pitched sound profile, while the Master's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. In terms of bottom housing, both switches use ABS material, leading to a similar low-pitched sound profile. This means that both switches offer a relatively consistent typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to bottom housing.
However, when comparing the top housing materials of the Crystal Violet and the Master, we see a clear difference in sound profile. The ABS top housing of the Crystal Violet produces a relatively low-pitched sound, while the POM top housing of the Master creates a unique and deeper tone. This contrast in sound can offer users a varied typing experience depending on their preference for sound profile. Additionally, the POM material used in the Master's bottom housing contributes to a more muted sound profile compared to the Crystal Violet's ABS bottom housing, which may appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials used in the Everglide Crystal Violet and the Dareu Master play a significant role in shaping the sound profile of each switch. While the ABS bottom housing in both switches provides a similar low-pitched sound, the differences in top housing materials result in distinct typing experiences. The Crystal Violet offers a consistent sound profile throughout, while the Master provides a unique and deeper tone. Depending on personal preference for sound, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Crystal Violet has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Master has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that while both switches require the same amount of force to activate a key press, the Crystal Violet offers a clearer indication of the force needed for bottoming out. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter feel of the Crystal Violet for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may lean towards the Master for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, the Crystal Violet has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Master has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Crystal Violet the longer option of the two. The difference between the two switches may not seem significant, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the shorter travel distance of the Master switch, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Crystal Violet. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Crystal Violet has an MSRP of $7.08 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crystal Violet for $4.19.
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
In terms of sound, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is non-intrusive and suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp and percussive. When comparing the two, users can expect a more subtle and relaxed auditory experience with the Crystal Violet switch, while the Master switch delivers a classic clacky sound ideal for those who prefer a more pronounced typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch is described as creamy, mild, and stepped, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a gentle feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Users can expect a silky sensation when typing on these switches, with a mild tactile feedback that is comfortable and enjoyable. The Dareu Master linear switch, on the other hand, is characterized as mild and polished, providing a refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Crystal Violet switch emphasizing a more stepped tactile feel while the Master switch focuses on smoothness and refinement.
In conclusion, the Everglide Crystal Violet tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch offer unique sound and feel profiles to cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Crystal Violet switch provides a low-pitched and creamy typing experience with a stepped tactile feel, the Master switch delivers a clacky sound signature with a polished and smooth operation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these switches to achieve their desired typing experience, knowing that they will get satisfying results with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a relaxed and stepped tactile typing experience with a gentle and comfortable feel, then the Everglide Crystal Violet switch with its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams would be a great choice for you. The Crystal Violet switch offers a mellow, low-pitched sound profile and a creamy, mild typing feel that is ideal for those seeking a smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic clacky sound signature with exceptional smoothness in operation, then the Dareu Master linear switch would be the way to go. With its medium weight and all-POM construction, the Master switch provides a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, along with a polished and mild typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between the Crystal Violet and Master switches will depend on whether you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a gentle feel or a linear switch with a clacky sound and smooth operation.
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