Huano Grape Orange vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Huano Grape Orange and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the Huano Grape Orange and the Dareu Master, both of which are linear switches catering to distinct typing preferences. The Grape Orange switches shine with an ultra-light actuation force of just 40g, allowing for an exceptionally effortless typing experience that makes them ideal for extended use without fatigue. On the other hand, the Dareu Master strikes a balance with a medium actuation weight, delivering a classic 'clacky' sound that can enhance the tactile enjoyment of typing, along with a smooth operation characterized by its all-POM construction. While the Grape Orange excels in providing a feather-light touch for those who prioritize speed and comfort, the Master offers a refined auditory feedback and polished feel for those who appreciate a bit more resistance and a satisfying 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the Dareu Master, notable distinctions arise, particularly in the composition of their top housings. The Grape Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, which is crucial for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in enhanced resonance, contributing to a more pronounced auditory experience. This material is also conducive to showcasing RGB lighting thanks to its translucency, allowing for vibrant illumination. In contrast, the Dareu Master incorporates a top housing made from POM. While POM may offer a pleasing sound, it is described as creating a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the vibrant characteristics of polycarbonate. This fundamental difference in material impacts how each switch interacts with sound and light.
The bottom housings of both switches showcase another layer of comparison, as both the Grape Orange and the Dareu Master utilize different materials that significantly influence their sound profiles. The Grape Orange is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer properties, which absorb more vibrations. This absorption results in a rounder auditory output that characterizes the typing experience. Meanwhile, the Dareu Master's POM bottom housing shares a similar trait of producing a deeper, muted sound, although it may not offer the same depth as nylon. Both switches, therefore, emphasize a fuller sound experience but do so through distinct material characteristics, leading to unique auditory sensations.
Ultimately, while the Huano Grape Orange and the Dareu Master employ different materials in their housing constructions, this distinction leads to variances in their sound profiles. The polycarbonate top of the Grape Orange enhances treble tones, whereas the POM top of the Dareu Master calms sound dynamics to provide a deeper tone. Similarly, although both switches utilize different bottom housing materials, they maintain a focus on a muted sound profile—nylon in the Grape Orange versus POM in the Master. As a result, while they produce varied auditory outcomes based on their differing materials, users can still expect an overall balanced sound experience from each switch, with the bottom housing affecting the pressing sensation and the top housing influencing the release sound.
Weight
When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch to the Dareu Master linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Grape Orange has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier on the fingers, which is ideal for long typing sessions or extended gaming. In contrast, the Master switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. However, the bottom out force for the Dareu Master is unspecified, preventing a direct comparison on that front. The Grape Orange does have a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating it requires a bit more pressure to fully bottom out. This means that while the Grape Orange is lighter overall, offering a more effortless typing experience, the Master could provide a firmer feedback at the actuation point, assuming a bottom out force is eventually provided.
Travel distance
The Huano Grape Orange linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Grape Orange offers a bit more depth, which may be preferable for those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel, while the Master, with its shorter travel distance, caters to gamers or users seeking quick and responsive key presses. In terms of responsiveness, the Master may provide a faster experience due to its lesser travel distance, but some users may find the Grape Orange's longer travel beneficial for a more tactile and engaged typing experience. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Dareu Master is the better choice, whereas those who favor a more pronounced keystroke will gravitate towards the Huano Grape Orange.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Huano Grape Orange has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Grape Orange for $2.79.
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 Huano Grape Orange linear switch offers a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. Its subdued acoustics allow for focused work without the interruption of loud clicks or pops, which can be distracting in a shared space. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch features a classic clacky sound signature, producing a sharp, crisp, and bright sound when pressed. This characteristic can be quite satisfying for users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. However, it’s important to note that the sound produced by both switches can vary significantly depending on the specific keyboard board and keycap choices used with them.
In terms of feel, the Grape Orange provides an exceptionally light typing experience, with a mere 40g actuation force that allows for effortless keystrokes. This makes it particularly suitable for extended typing sessions, ensuring minimal finger fatigue. By contrast, the Dareu Master strikes a balance with a medium weight that promotes a gentle yet responsive typing experience. It is described as mild, appealing to a broad range of users by avoiding overly aggressive tactile feedback while still being engaging enough to provide satisfaction. Additionally, the polished nature of the Master switch enhances its smoothness, making each keystroke feel refined and seamless.
In conclusion, while the Huano Grape Orange linear switch excels in providing a lightweight and quiet typing experience suited for long sessions, the Dareu Master switch delivers satisfying auditory feedback and a smooth, polished feel. Users looking for a straightforward and efficient typing experience may prefer the Grape Orange, whereas those who enjoy a bit more character and audible feedback might lean towards the Dareu Master. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, so individual choice will significantly impact the user experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing habits. If you find yourself typing for long periods and desire a light, effortless feel right at your fingertips, the Grape Orange is an excellent choice with its low actuation force of 40 grams. This switch allows for swift and easy keystrokes, making it particularly well-suited for writers or gamers who need a responsive yet gentle touch. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a switch that strikes a balance between smoothness and a pleasant auditory experience, the Dareu Master might be your best bet. Its polished feel combined with a mild clacky sound adds a charming character to your typing experience while still maintaining comfort. If you appreciate a more classic yet refined feel beneath your fingers, the Master switch's medium weight will provide you with a satisfying tactile engagement. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you—whether it’s the ease of typing or the overall auditory and tactile feedback—as this will guide your decision and enhance your keyboard experience.
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