TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Master offer two distinct experiences for users. The TTC Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch that provides a subtle, nuanced feedback with a gentle tactile bump, creating a background presence that allows for immersion in tasks without distraction. Its subdued sound profile ensures a whisper-like keystroke experience, perfect for those who appreciate understated tactile experiences. On the other hand, the Dareu Master is a linear switch made of POM material, offering a medium weight and classic clacky sound signature. It provides exceptional smoothness in operation, appealing to users who prioritize a smooth typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between them depends on personal preferences and typing habits. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Master, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles. The Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Master's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While the polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound, the POM top housing offers a more subdued and pleasing sound experience. However, both materials excel in different aspects of sound production, catering to a variety of preferences.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Gold Brown Pro's nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, in contrast to the POM bottom housing of the Dareu Master, which also produces a deeper and more muted sound. Despite both materials causing a similar effect on sound, the softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Master contributes to its unique sound profile, creating a pleasing and deep sound experience that sets it apart from the Gold Brown Pro.
Ultimately, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Master utilize different housing materials, they both offer distinct sound profiles catered to varying preferences. Whether it be the sharper, higher-pitched sound of the Gold Brown Pro's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper, more muted sound produced by the POM top housing of the Master, each switch provides a unique typing experience. Similarly, the nylon and POM bottom housings of the Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Master respectively contribute to their individual sound profiles, showcasing the importance of housing materials in creating a specific typing feel and sound.
Weight
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them equally responsive in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the information is unknown for both switches. This means that it is unclear how much force is required to fully press the key down on either switch. In terms of weight, the lighter actuation force of 45 grams may be preferred by individuals looking for a lighter typing experience that allows them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer a heavier actuation force for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them suitable for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing or gaming experience. Gamers may prefer the Dareu Master switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker keystrokes and better reaction times. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a bit more depth and feedback with a slightly longer travel distance. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound that is neutral in nature, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying typing experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, offering a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. The choice between the two switches in terms of sound depends on personal preference, with the Gold Brown Pro offering a more subtle and muted sound compared to the Master's more pronounced and percussive sound.
In the realm of feel, both the Gold Brown Pro and the Dareu Master switches share similar qualities of being polished and mild. The Gold Brown Pro switch provides a polished and silky typing experience with a subtle and stepped tactile bump, offering a refined and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Master switch offers a polished finish for smooth key travel and a mild typing experience that falls into a comfortable middle ground for most users. Both switches excel in providing a gentle and approachable typing feel, with slight nuances distinguishing their tactile and linear characteristics.
Overall, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch both offer different yet appealing qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Brown Pro provides a subtle tactility and low-pitched thocky sound, ideal for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. Conversely, the Dareu Master switch offers a clacky sound with exceptional smoothness, catering to users who enjoy a more pronounced and crisp keystroke sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound profile, tactile feedback, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch or the Dareu Master linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferred typing experience. If you value a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback with a subdued sound profile, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is the way to go. This switch is perfect for those who want to stay focused on their tasks without being distracted by loud keypresses. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight linear switch with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master switch is the better option for you. Ultimately, it's all about personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for. Choose wisely based on your typing style and needs.
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