TTC Gold Brown vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Master present distinct options to suit different preferences. The Gold Brown is praised for its balanced nature, offering a slight bump for tactile feedback and a moderate weightiness. It also boasts a softer sound profile compared to many other switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Master is known for its smooth linear operation and classic clacky sound signature. While the Gold Brown is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', 'Accented', and 'Polished', the Master falls under 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that may appeal to different users depending on their specific needs and 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Master, we can see some key differences. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Master utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound, offering a unique typing feel. While both materials have their own distinct characteristics, users looking for a brighter sound may prefer the Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing, while those seeking a deeper sound may lean towards the Master's POM top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Gold Brown incorporates a nylon bottom housing known for its ability to create a fuller and deeper sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Master also utilizes a POM bottom housing, offering a deeper and more muted sound similar to its top housing. While both bottom housing materials aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, users may find the Gold Brown's nylon bottom housing more appealing if they prefer a fuller sound profile, whereas those seeking a more muted sound may opt for the Master's POM bottom housing.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the TTC Gold Brown and the Dareu Master offer users a choice between a sharper and crisper sound profile with the Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing, or a deeper and more muted sound with the Master's POM top housing. Similarly, the contrast between the nylon bottom housing of the Gold Brown and the POM bottom housing of the Master provides users with options for a fuller sound experience or a more muted typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that the Gold Brown has a slightly heavier actuation force at 55 grams compared to the Master's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Gold Brown is also heavier at 63 grams compared to the Master, where the force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter feel while typing, the Dareu Master linear switch would be the better option due to its lighter actuation force. On the other hand, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a bit more resistance, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be the ideal choice. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing options for users with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Brown offering a more standard depth compared to the slightly shallower Master. Gamers may lean towards the Master switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Gold Brown. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 offers a more neutral profile with a softer, rounded tone that is pleasing to the ear. On the other hand, the Dareu Master provides a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive in nature. Depending on your preference, the Gold Brown may be more suitable for a quieter environment while the Master could be a better fit for those who enjoy a more pronounced and lively typing experience.
In terms of feel, both the Gold Brown and the Master switches offer a mild typing experience. The Gold Brown is described as mild, buttery, accented, and polished, providing a balanced and smooth key press that falls comfortably in the middle-ground zone. Similarly, the Master switch is also characterized as mild and polished, offering a refined and effortless typing sensation that is gentle on the fingers. Overall, users can expect a comfortable and approachable feel with either switch.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch both have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Gold Brown excels in providing a balanced and softer sound profile with a smooth key press, the Master stands out with its clacky and lively sound signature combined with exceptional smoothness. Whether you prefer a more neutral and rounded sound like the Gold Brown or a sharp and snappy sound like the Master, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience that beginners and advanced users alike can appreciate. Ultimately, depending on your personal taste and the environment in which you'll be using the switches, either choice is sure to deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you value a balanced feel with a slight bump and a moderate weightiness, along with a softer sound profile, the Gold Brown may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a classic clacky sound signature, exceptional smoothness in operation, and a medium weight feel, the Dareu Master switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
Mentioned in this article
