TTC Gold Pink vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Pink and the Dareu Master both offer unique experiences for users. The Gold Pink is a linear switch with a 37g actuation force, making it one of the lightest switches available. This switch is perfect for those who value a fast and effortless typing or gaming experience, thanks to its satisfying feedback and clacky sound. On the other hand, the Dareu Master is also a linear switch, but with a medium weight that provides a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness. While the Gold Pink is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Master is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths depending on your preferences and needs; 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
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Dareu Master's POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both housings are praised for their unique sound profiles, with polycarbonate offering a clearer and more resonant sound while POM provides a pleasing depth. In terms of aesthetics, the Gold Pink's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting, enhancing its visual appeal.
On the other hand, the Gold Pink's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the Dareu Master's POM bottom housing contributes to the overall deeper and more muted sound profile of the switch. Both switch housings offer distinct sound characteristics, with nylon creating a fuller sound and POM offering a unique depth.
While the top and bottom housings of the Gold Pink and Dareu Master differ in material, the qualities brought by each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer a blend of different housing materials to achieve a desired sound profile, with the Gold Pink emphasizing clarity and resonance through polycarbonate and nylon, while the Dareu Master focuses on depth and muted tones with POM.
Weight
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have the same bottom out force of 45 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Gold Pink switch makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Master switch provides a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. While the bottom out force is the same for both switches, the difference in actuation force may result in a slightly different typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional option compared to the Dareu Master linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Master switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Gold Pink switch. Both switches offer varying degrees of tactile feedback and actuation force, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
In terms of sound, the Gold Pink linear switch offers a clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch also boasts a clacky sound profile, delivering a crisp, bright, and percussive sound experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar clacky sound, ensuring users will get comparable auditory feedback regardless of their choice.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Pink switch is known for its buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. This implies a smooth, light, gentle, and refined keypress with reduced finger fatigue and a sleek feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch provides a mild and polished typing sensation, offering a gentle and sleek key press with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches aim to provide users with a comfortable and effortless typing experience, ensuring that the overall feel is similar between the two options.
Considering the available information, both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch showcase similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the specific descriptors may differ slightly, both switches provide a clacky sound profile and a smooth, gentle typing experience. Therefore, newcomers can expect comparable results in terms of sound and feel when choosing between the Gold Pink and Master linear switches. Ultimately, the decision may come down to personal preference and specific typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that best cater to your typing preferences. Opt for the Gold Pink if you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, especially for fast-paced typing or gaming, as it offers a light actuation force and a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, select the Dareu Master if you prefer a medium-weight switch with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. Ultimately, your choice should be based on whether you prefer a lighter and lively feel with the Gold Pink or a medium-weight switch with a polished typing experience with the Dareu Master. Choose wisely based on your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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