TTC Flaming Pink vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Pink and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two compelling contenders stand out: the TTC Flaming Pink and the Dareu Master, both linear switches designed to enhance your typing and gaming experience. The Flaming Pink switches are lauded for their smooth, responsive feel and a satisfying bottom-out sound, ensuring a high-quality typing experience that caters to both gamers and everyday users alike. Their sound profile is bright yet carefully balanced, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy an audible confirmation without overwhelming noise. In contrast, the Dareu Master switch, crafted from all-POM materials, strikes a medium actuation weight, delivering a classic clacky sound signature paired with exceptional smoothness in operation. This switch is perfect for users who appreciate a bit more auditory feedback during their typing sessions. While both switches offer distinct benefits, they cater to different preferences in sound and feel. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
24mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Pink and the Dareu Master switches, we find distinct characteristics that influence their overall sound profiles. The Flaming Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its ability to produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer composition. This makes the Flaming Pink particularly effective for RGB lighting setups, as its translucency allows the illumination to shine through beautifully. In contrast, the Dareu Master's top housing is constructed from POM, which lends a deeper, more muted sound to its profile. The softer nature of POM dampens the sound, resulting in a unique auditory experience that caters to those who prefer a less piercing auditory response while typing.
Further investigating the bottom housing of each switch, we again see contrasts in materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Flaming Pink utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for being a classic choice that provides a deeper, fuller sound. The nylon's softer characteristics also serve to absorb sound, culminating in a rounder auditory experience when bottoming out. On the other hand, the Dareu Master features a POM bottom housing, similar to its top section, which also produces a muted, deep sound. While both switches emphasize a deeper auditory response through their bottom housings, the Flaming Pink’s nylon introduces a distinctive rounded fullness that the Dareu Master’s POM does not replicate.
Despite the differing materials used in their housings, both switches can achieve similar results in terms of sound quality when the interactions between their respective top and bottom materials are considered. For instance, while the Flaming Pink’s polycarbonate top contributes a crisp response upon release, the nylon bottom softens the overall impact, creating a well-rounded experience. Conversely, the Dareu Master maintains a consistent sound character with both POM components that focus on a deeper sound profile. Understanding that the top housing influences the sound of release while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out feel, users can appreciate how different material combinations ultimately lead to unique typing experiences. Despite their differences, both designs cater to specific auditory preferences and can satisfy diverse typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, we find notable differences in their specifications. The Flaming Pink, with an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, is the lighter option, making it ideal for users who prefer a gentler touch during long typing sessions or extensive gaming. In contrast, the Dareu Master has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams, but its bottom out force is unavailable, preventing a full comparison of its pressing experience. This unknown factor leaves a gap in understanding the overall feel of the Dareu Master switch. Despite this, the Flaming Pink's metrics suggest a more comfortable and less taxing typing experience, while the heavier actuation force of the Dareu Master may appeal to users seeking a more substantial push feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, the TTC Flaming Pink measures a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Master features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This indicates that the Flaming Pink switch offers a bit more depth, which may cater to users who prefer a more pronounced keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master, being the shorter option, might be more appealing to gamers seeking quicker response times. Although both switches fall within the modern trend of shorter travel distances, the subtle difference suggests that users valuing a more nuanced typing experience might favor the Flaming Pink, while those prioritizing speed and responsiveness may lean towards the Dareu Master.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Pink has an MSRP of $4.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Pink for $4.00.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the TTC Flaming Pink and the Dareu Master linear switches, notable differences emerge. The Flaming Pink is characterized by a bright yet not overly loud sound, which delivers a pleasant auditory experience without being jarring. In contrast, the Master switch is known for its clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and percussive noise upon actuation. This crisp sound can be quite enjoyable for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback. It's important to note that the overall sound of both switches can also be influenced by the specific keyboard they are used in and the type of keycaps installed.
In terms of feel, the TTC Flaming Pink switches provide a smooth and responsive typing experience, which is ideal for both gaming and everyday tasks. This responsiveness enhances the overall performance without any hindrance. The Dareu Master, while also smooth, is designed to offer a mild typing experience that is approachable for most users. Its polished characteristics indicate a refined finish, resulting in little friction and smooth key travel. This makes the Master switch comfortable for extended use. Overall, while both switches deliver a pleasant feel, the Flaming Pink might cater to those who prefer a more straightforward linear feel, whereas the Master balances smoothness with a mild overall experience.
In conclusion, while the TTC Flaming Pink and Dareu Master linear switches both offer unique qualities, the differences in their sound profiles and feel can guide your selection based on personal preference. The Flaming Pink excels in providing a bright yet gentle sound with a smooth feel, making it ideal for all-around use, while the Master delivers a distinct clacky auditory experience coupled with a more polished and mild typing sensation. If you are torn between the two, the clear distinctions may help in finding the switch that aligns best with your needs, ensuring a satisfying typing experience no matter your choice.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the TTC Flaming Pink linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, your preferences and intended use will guide your decision. If you prioritize a lighter actuation and are looking for a switch that provides a smooth and responsive typing experience, along with a satisfying sound that isn't overly loud, the TTC Flaming Pink is an excellent choice. This makes it suitable for both gaming and everyday tasks, especially if you appreciate a tactile yet gentle feedback during your sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced experience with a mild, polished feel and a classic clacky sound that adds character to your typing, the Dareu Master switch could be your ideal match. Its medium weight and exceptional smoothness make it approachable and appealing to a wider range of users who enjoy a cleaner sound profile. In essence, choose the Flaming Pink for a lively feel and sound or opt for the Master if you're seeking a refined and versatile typing experience.
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