KTT Laurel vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Laurel and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, both fall into the linear switch category but offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The KTT Laurel is praised for its medium-light feel, short travel distance, and long pole design, providing a perfect blend of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, it features a low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Master offers a slightly heavier actuation force, a classic clacky sound signature, and exceptional smoothness during operation thanks to its all-POM construction. While the KTT Laurel is described as 'Low-pitched' and 'Snappy', the Dareu Master is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and it's important to delve deeper into their specific characteristics to determine which one best suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and Dareu Master both feature POM top and bottom housing materials, creating a similar sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. This means that when typing on either keyboard, you can expect a satisfying and unique sound that is not too loud or harsh. The POM material used in both keyboards helps to dampen the sound, creating a more pleasant typing experience overall.
While both keyboards utilize POM housing materials, the way in which they are constructed may differ slightly. The qualities of the POM material will be split between the top and bottom housings of the switch, with the bottom housing having more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when a key is released. This means that while the overall sound profile may be similar between the Laurel and Master, the feel of typing on each keyboard may vary slightly due to the distribution of the POM material.
In terms of overall performance and sound quality, the similarities between the housing materials of the KTT Laurel and Dareu Master make them both excellent choices for those looking for a keyboard with a deep and muted sound profile. Whether you prefer the feel of the bottom-out sound or the sound when releasing a key, both keyboards offer a satisfying typing experience that is sure to please. Ultimately, the decision between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of aesthetics, additional features, and typing feel.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Laurel linear switch is slightly lighter at 43 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the KTT Laurel is heavier at 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Dareu Master is unknown. This means that the Laurel switch will require a lighter touch to register a keystroke, but more force is needed to fully press the key down compared to the Master switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Laurel may be the better choice, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Master switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall into the category of shorter travel distances, making them ideal for users looking for faster response times, especially gamers. However, the Laurel switch offers a slightly deeper feel due to its longer travel distance compared to the Master switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the Laurel switch providing a slightly more robust key press experience while the Master switch offers a slightly quicker response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch offers a subtly low-pitched profile, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch is known for its classic clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The sound produced by these switches can be further influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience due to its longer or dual-staged springs. On the contrary, the Dareu Master switch is noted for providing a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. The qualities of these switches stand in different zones, with the Laurel leaning towards a more lively and responsive feel while the Master provides a smoother and gentler typing experience.
Taking all the available information into consideration, it is evident that the KTT Laurel and Dareu Master linear switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. If one is looking for a switch with a low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing experience, the Laurel switch would be the preferred choice. On the other hand, if a clacky sound signature and a polished, mild feel are more appealing, the Master switch would be the ideal option. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the overall typing experience one is seeking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT Laurel linear switch or the Dareu Master linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a medium-light linear switch with a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Laurel may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium weight, classic clacky sound signature, and exceptional smoothness in operation, the Dareu Master could be the ideal option. Consider how you like your switches to sound and feel when making your decision between these two linear switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Laurel and Master switches will depend on what characteristics are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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