Durock Light Tactile vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that they offer distinct features tailored to different preferences. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is praised for its gentle tactility, providing a soft and smooth typing experience with a unique jelly-like sound. On the other hand, the Master switch from Dareu offers a medium weight linear option with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smooth operation. While the Light Tactile switch may appeal to those seeking a softer tactile feedback, the Master switch is ideal for users looking for a linear switch with a bit of heft and a traditional clacky sound. 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Master keyboards exhibit some key differences. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Master utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. The polycarbonate material in the Light Tactile's top housing offers a more resonant sound due to its stiffness, making it ideal for those who prefer a clear and higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the POM material in the Master's top housing provides a unique and deeper sound that is more subdued compared to the Light Tactile's sound profile.
On the other hand, both the Light Tactile and the Dareu Master keyboards share a nylon bottom housing material, which contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile. The nylon material in the Light Tactile absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate material in the top housing. Similarly, the POM bottom housing in the Dareu Master also imparts a deeper and more muted sound, aligning it with the characteristics of the nylon bottom housing in the Light Tactile. While the top and bottom housing materials may differ in each keyboard, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent and pleasing typing experience with a deeper sound profile for both keyboards.
Overall, the housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Master keyboards complement each other to create unique sound profiles. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Light Tactile offers a sharper and clearer sound on top, while providing a fuller and deeper sound on the bottom. In contrast, the Master's POM top and bottom housings deliver a deeper and more muted sound across the board. Despite these differences, both keyboards promise a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, making them suitable choices for keyboard enthusiasts looking for variety in their sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it becomes apparent that the Light Tactile has a higher actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Master's 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Light Tactile at 67 grams is also higher than the Master's unknown bottom out force. This makes the Light Tactile switch the heavier option in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. In terms of weight, the Light Tactile could provide a more substantial typing experience, while the Master may be lighter and more suitable for longer typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding actuation and bottom out force for the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Light Tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master switch. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper feel when pressed, while a 3.4mm travel distance is shallower and preferred by gamers for faster response times. Both switches provide a different typing experience, with the Light Tactile offering a more substantial keypress compared to the Master switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 Durock Light Tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most users regardless of skill level or setting. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch has a clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, both the Durock Light Tactile and Dareu Master switches offer a mild typing experience, catering to those who prefer a gentler switch feel. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes them ideal for users looking for a comfortable and consistent typing experience.
Overall, while the Durock Light Tactile and Dareu Master switches may offer slightly different sound profiles, they both provide a mild and polished typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can expect a comfortable and smooth typing feel with either switch. Ultimately, with both switches falling into a similar middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel, users can expect comparable results in their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Durock Light Tactile and the Dareu Master switches, it ultimately comes down to your preference for tactility and sound. If you enjoy a gentle and smooth typing experience with a jelly-like sound profile, the Light Tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a classic clacky sound with exceptional smoothness in operation, the Master switch would be more suitable. Consider your personal typing style and sound preferences when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what best fits your individual needs.
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