TKC Kiwi vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TKC Kiwi and the Dareu Master are both popular mechanical keyboard switches, each offering a unique typing experience. The Kiwi is a tactile switch known for its medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, providing a satisfyingly snappy sound profile that enhances typing immersion. On the other hand, the Master is a linear switch made of POM, offering a medium weight for users and a classic clacky sound signature that is exceptionally smooth in operation. While the Kiwi offers a tactile typing experience, the Master provides a smooth linear feel. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and Dareu Master switches both offer unique sound profiles, with the Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housings providing a bright and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Master's POM top and bottom housings create a deeper and more muted sound when typing. Despite these differences, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience by offering distinct sound signatures that cater to different preferences.
One similarity between the housing materials of the Kiwi and Master switches is their ability to provide a unique and pleasing sound profile. While the Kiwi's UHWMPE top and bottom housings produce bright and resonant clacks, the Master's POM housings offer a deeper and more muted sound. Both switches prioritize sound quality, with each housing material contributing to a distinct typing experience that appeals to different preferences. Whether you prefer a brighter and more resonant sound or a deeper and more muted one, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience.
One key difference between the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and Dareu Master switches lies in the impact each housing has on the sound when typing. The bottom housing of a switch has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi and the POM bottom housing of the Master each contribute to the overall typing experience in their own unique way, making both switches stand out in terms of sound profile and feel. Whether you prioritize the sound when pressing down a key or releasing it, both switches offer a distinctive typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that the Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Master's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Kiwi is heavier at 67 grams, while the Master's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Kiwi switch more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it requires less force to actuate the keys. On the other hand, the Master switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel due to its slightly higher actuation force. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for pressure and feedback while typing.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Kiwi has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master, making it the longer option. A 0.6 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can make a noticeable impact on how the switch feels when pressed. If you prefer a deeper keystroke and more feedback, the TKC Kiwi may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quicker response time and a shallower feel, the Dareu Master linear switch with its shorter travel distance might be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preference for typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, resulting in a bass-heavy and mellow tone with a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the TKC Kiwi switch is characterized by a stepped and accented tactile feedback that provides a medium-strong bump at the top of each keystroke, enhancing the typing experience without being overwhelming. The switch's polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Conversely, the Dareu Master switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. The smooth key travel and refined finish contribute to a sleek typing experience with minimal friction.
Considering all the available information, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and medium-strong bump, the TKC Kiwi switch would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a linear switch with a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master switch would be a solid option. Both switches offer polished finishes, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the TKC Kiwi if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a tactile feedback that features a snappy sound profile and a satisfying bump at the top of each key press. The Kiwi switch is lightly factory lubed, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Dareu Master if you seek a switch with a medium weight that offers a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. The Master switch provides a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience.
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