HMX Jelly vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Jelly and the Dareu Master both stand out as compelling linear options, each offering a unique tactile experience tailored to different preferences. The HMX Jelly is celebrated for its low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, delivering a lightweight feel with a mere 42g actuation force, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize a smooth typing experience without much resistance. On the other hand, the Dareu Master features a medium weight while boasting a classic clacky sound, giving it a more polished sound profile alongside its smooth operation—all thanks to its all-POM construction. For those who enjoy a deeper sound while typing and seek a lightweight feel, the Jelly offers a distinct advantage, while users who prefer a more balanced weight with a clackier feedback may gravitate towards the Master. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T2
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the Dareu Master switches present intriguing contrasts that influence their sound profiles and overall feel. The HMX Jelly features a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its softer characteristics that absorb sound effectively. This results in a deeper and fuller auditory experience, as nylon's ability to dampen vibrations leads to a sound that is both round and subdued. In contrast, the Dareu Master utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) top housing, known for producing a unique sound profile that remains deep yet more muted than that of nylon. The POM material adds a distinctive quality that enthusiasts might find intriguing, setting the two switches apart in auditory experience.
When we shift our focus to the bottom housing, similar distinctions emerge. Both the HMX Jelly and the Dareu Master offer nylon and POM materials, respectively, which contribute to their sound profiles in complementary ways. The nylon bottom housing of the Jelly reinforces the fuller sound profile it provides, imparting a sense of depth and resonance that aligns with the characteristics of its top housing. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the Dareu Master also leans towards a deeper but notably muted sound, differentiating it from the Jelly while keeping it within a similar auditory realm. This difference indicates that while the Jelly leans towards a more traditional sound, the Master embraces a modern touch.
Despite the differences in material, both switches share a commonality in how their sound profiles are experienced. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is tangible in both cases, while the top housing nuances the release sound of the keypress. Thus, users of either switch will likely enjoy satisfying auditory responses, albeit in slightly different spectrums. Whether through the Jelly's nylon softness or the Master's POM uniqueness, typing on both could yield surprisingly similar results in terms of auditory satisfaction—each offering a distinctive take on depth and sound mutability within mechanical switch mechanics.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, significant differences emerge in their actuation forces, while the bottom out force for the Master remains unknown. The Jelly switch has a light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it well-suited for prolonged typing or gaming sessions due to its lower resistance. In contrast, the Dareu Master switch features a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a firmer feel that may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Without a specified bottom out force for the Master, it's unclear how it compares upon fully depressing the key. Overall, the HMX Jelly is the lighter option, offering ease of use for those who type or game for extended periods, while the Dareu Master leans toward a heavier experience for those who value that tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Jelly linear switch features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference indicates that if you choose the Jelly switch, you'll experience a deeper feel when pressing down, which some users may find satisfying for its more pronounced feedback. On the other hand, the Master switch offers quicker engagement, making it potentially more suitable for gamers seeking faster response times. The Jelly's longer travel distance may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial keypress, while the shorter travel distance of the Master may feel more abrupt and responsive to others. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for either a deeper, more tactile experience or a faster, more nimble touch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly 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 Jelly linear switch is known for its low-pitched, deep, and thocky sound signature, which provides a satisfying auditory feedback that many users find appealing. This sound profile creates an immersive typing experience that feels grounded and substantial. In contrast, the Dareu Master switch offers a medium-weight all-POM construction that results in a brighter, clackier auditory output. The clacky sound is characterized by a snappy, crisp quality that some typists may prefer for a more pronounced auditory response. While both switches deliver smooth operation, their sound profiles cater to different preferences, so the choice may depend on whether one favors a more muted thock or a lively clack.
In terms of feel, the Jelly switch excels in providing a soft, lightweight experience with its 42g actuation force, which many typists appreciate for its ease of use. The smoothness of the Jelly can be attributed to its excellent factory lubrication, contributing to a seamless typing experience that minimizes friction and fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch presents a mild feel—a gentle typing experience that is approachable for various users. It strikes a balance between smoothness and tactility, thanks to its polished finish and well-crafted materials. This switch allows for a comfortable session of typing without the overstimulation that more pronounced switches might provide.
In conclusion, while the HMX Jelly linear switch offers a deep, thocky sound and a lightweight feel ideal for those who prefer a smooth, effortless typing experience, the Dareu Master linear switch caters to users who enjoy a brighter clacky sound and a mild, polished feel. The choice between these switches will ultimately come down to personal preference—whether one seeks the satisfying depth of the Jelly or the lively promptness of the Master. Both switches provide excellent smoothness, so regardless of your decision, you're likely to enjoy an enjoyable and tactile typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and style. If you prefer a light touch and enjoy a deep, thocky sound profile that is particularly satisfying during both gaming and typing, the HMX Jelly switch may be the better option for you. Its low actuation force and smooth operation can enhance your overall experience, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming and long typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more balanced, medium-weight switch that provides a classic clacky sound and a polished feel, the Dareu Master switch would serve you well. Its mild characteristics make it approachable for everyday use, while still delivering an enjoyable auditory and tactile experience. Ultimately, consider what aspects—sound, actuation force, or typing feel—are most important to you to guide your decision in selecting the switch that best complements your keyboard setup.
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