HMX Gravel vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the HMX Gravel and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the merits of various options, such as the HMX Gravel and the Dareu Master, both of which are linear switches with their own unique characteristics. The HMX Gravel is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and medium-light actuation force, allowing for a responsive and effortless typing experience that appeals to those who appreciate a fluid feel under their fingers. In contrast, the Dareu Master offers a more robust medium-weight feel, coupled with a classic clacky sound signature that not only enhances auditory feedback but also provides a polished, smooth operation. While the Gravel leans towards a lighter touch for quicker key presses, the Master caters to users who enjoy a balance of resistance and sound. Both switches have their strengths, making them suitable choices for different typing preferences and styles. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Gravel and the Dareu Master, there are notable differences that impact their respective sound profiles. The Gravel incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile that can be enhanced when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Dareu Master utilizes a POM top housing, which is recognized for creating a deeper and more muted sound. The difference in the upper housing materials sets the stage for how each switch will sound when keys are pressed and released, indicating that the Gravel is better suited for those who prefer a clear, high-pitched auditory experience, while the Master caters to individuals who favor a lower, richer tone.
When we turn our attention to the bottom housing, both switches diverge in material use again, but with some similarities. The Gravel features a nylon bottom housing, which is widely regarded as a classic for switch housings. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound, yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Master also employs a POM bottom housing, which, similar to its top counterpart, contributes to a muted but pleasing sound. This similarity in materials for the lower housing signifies that, although their top housings differ in sound characteristics, both switches share a commonality in producing a sound that is rounded and less sharp when bottomed out.
In essence, while the HMX Gravel and the Dareu Master use different materials for their top housings—polycarbonate for the Gravel and POM for the Master—both switches exhibit contrasting yet unique sound profiles influenced by their choices of top and bottom housings. The Gravel’s design favors a brighter sound due to the polycarbonate, while the Master leans towards a warmer tone with its exclusive use of POM. However, the similarity in the bottom housing materials prompts a certain level of consistency in the deeper aspect of their sound profiles. Thus, while users will experience a range of auditory effects based on their choice, both switches ultimately may provide a satisfying tactile and auditory experience depending on individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that both switches require the same amount of pressure to trigger a keystroke, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users. However, the Gravel switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which tells us how much additional force is needed to press the key all the way down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Master switch is unknown, which leaves some uncertainty in terms of how it feels when pressed fully. The Gravel switch can be characterized as the lighter option overall, as the bottom out force is an important consideration for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended sessions. Meanwhile, the heavier push feel associated with the Gravel's bottom out force may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing sensation. In summary, while both switches have the same actuation force, the Gravel's known bottom out force offers a clearer understanding of its performance compared to the unknown measurement for the Master.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, we see that the Gravel has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Master measures slightly shorter at 3.4 mm. This means that for users seeking a quicker response time, the Master would offer a marginally more responsive experience due to its shorter distance. However, those who appreciate a fuller, more substantial feel in their keystrokes may prefer the Gravel switch, which provides that additional depth. Therefore, the Gravel is the longer travel option, while the Master takes the title for the shorter switch. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the short travel of the Master appealing to gamers and the deeper feel of the Gravel attracting those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 HMX Gravel switch does not have a defined auditory signature, allowing it to blend seamlessly into a quieter environment. This can contribute to a more subdued experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a discreet typing sound. In contrast, the Dareu Master linear switch is characterized by its classic clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy auditory response when keys are pressed. This sound is described as crisp, bright, and percussive, offering a more pronounced auditory feedback that may appeal to users who enjoy a lively typing atmosphere. However, it's worth noting that the overall sound experience can vary based on other factors such as the keyboard model and keycap selection.
In terms of feel, the HMX Gravel switch is distinguished by its smoothness and refined typing experience, coupled with a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side. This combination lends itself to a highly responsive and effortless key press, appealing to enthusiasts who value a seamless tactile experience. Conversely, the Dareu Master switch is classified as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The polished feel of the Master, resulting from its high-quality materials and potentially factory lubing, ensures a smooth travel without friction, appealing to users who appreciate a refined touch.
Overall, both the HMX Gravel and Dareu Master linear switches present appealing options for different typing preferences. The Gravel excels in providing a smooth, quiet experience suited for discreet environments, while the Master offers a more engaging auditory feedback and a mildly polished feel for those who enjoy a classic typing atmosphere. While the two switches provide varying sound experiences, their focus on smoothness ensures that both will deliver a satisfying typing session. Depending on individual preference for sound and feel, users can choose between the nuanced tranquility of the Gravel and the dynamic response of the Master.
Conclusion
To sum up, choosing between the HMX Gravel linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you favor a lighter touch and seek an effortless typing experience with smoothness at its forefront, the Gravel is ideal for you. Its light bottom-out force of 50 grams allows for quick keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for those who might engage in extensive typing or gaming sessions where responsiveness is key. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a slightly firmer feel that provides a classic clacky sound experience, the Dareu Master switch would be more suited to your needs. Its medium weight and polished operation deliver a balanced typing experience where the mild characteristics make it approachable for all users, while the clacky sound signature adds a playful element to your typing. Ultimately, consider your typing style, whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback, or if you prefer a smoother and lighter touch; this will guide you toward the right choice between these two exceptional switches.
Mentioned in this article
