Gateron Ink Yellow vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Gateron Ink Yellow is known for its shorter travel, offering a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard. This switch boasts a smooth and clacky feel, perfect for those looking for a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master is an all-POM linear switch that provides users with a medium weight feel, along with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness during operation. Both switches are categorized as 'Mild' and 'Polished', with the Ink Yellow also being labeled as 'Neutral'. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Master switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing provides a pointed and high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Master's POM top and bottom housing create a deeper and more muted sound profile. This results in a noticeable difference in sound when pressing down on each switch.
In terms of sound characteristics, the Ink Yellow's housing material leans towards a sharper and thinner sound profile compared to the Master's POM housing, which offers a deeper and more muted sound. The INK blend top and bottom housing combination of the Ink Yellow contributes to its satisfying clacky sound when typing. On the other hand, the POM housing of the Master switch delivers a more subtle and subdued sound profile that is favored by those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Despite their differences, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and Dareu Master housing materials provide unique advantages when it comes to their sound profiles and tactile feedback. While the Ink Yellow offers a sharper and clacky sound with its proprietary INK blend housing, the Master's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Yellow is 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Dareu Master is unknown. This means that the Gateron switch offers a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces, while the Dareu switch provides a lighter typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming, the Dareu Master switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, for users who prefer a stronger push feel, the Gateron Ink Yellow would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them popular choices for gamers seeking quick response times. However, the Ink Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master. Gamers looking for a little more depth in their keystrokes may prefer the Ink Yellow switch, while those who prioritize the quickest response possible may lean towards the Master switch for its slightly shorter travel distance. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of travel distance, so the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Yellow has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Yellow for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Master both share a clacky sound profile, producing sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This characteristic adds an element of crispness and brightness to the typing experience, enhancing the auditory feedback for the user. However, it is essential to note that the overall sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's build and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Master switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that users can expect a gentle and approachable feel while typing, as the switches fall within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of their tactile feedback. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that promotes smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing sessions.
Overall, while the Gateron Ink Yellow and the Dareu Master switches differ in some aspects, such as actuation force and weight, they both provide a satisfying typing experience characterized by a clacky sound profile and a mild, polished feel. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel when using either of these linear switches, making them both excellent options for those seeking a balance between typing comfort and auditory feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch with a pleasant smoothness and clackiness, the Gateron Ink Yellow would be a great choice. It is best suited for those seeking a typing experience between that on a laptop and on a standard mechanical keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight linear switch with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns with your desired typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
