KTT Lightning vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Lightning linear switch to the Dareu Master linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique features and benefits. The Lightning is renowned for its speed and precision, making it ideal for gaming scenarios where split-second decisions can make all the difference. On the other hand, the Master switch by Dareu is recognized for its medium weight and smooth operation, providing a classic clacky sound profile that many users enjoy. While the Lightning may excel in fast-paced gaming environments, the Master switch offers a more balanced typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Dareu Master differ in their top housing compositions. The Lightning features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Master utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials have their own unique characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Lightning offers a brighter sound, while the POM top housing of the Master produces a more subdued tone.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the KTT Lightning boasts a nylon bottom housing that enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone compared to harder plastics. Similarly, the Dareu Master also features a POM bottom housing, which contributes to the pleasing and unique sound profile of the switch. Both nylon and POM materials have their own impacts on the overall sound and feel of the switches, with nylon offering a deeper sound and POM providing a more muted tone.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the Dareu Master differ, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switches. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing compositions.
Weight
The actuation force of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 43 grams, while the Dareu Master linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Master slightly heavier in this aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Lightning requires 50 grams to fully press down, while the Master's bottom out force is unknown. In terms of weight, the Lightning is lighter overall, which may be preferred by users looking for a more effortless typing experience. The Master, on the other hand, offers a slightly more substantial push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch is 3 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are increasingly popular among gamers for their faster response times. However, the Lightning switch offers a slightly shallower press compared to the Master switch. Gamers who prefer a quicker, more responsive feel may opt for the Lightning switch, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may lean towards the Master switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning and Dareu Master both offer a clacky sound profile, with the Lightning also having a high-pitched and chirpy component to its sound. Depending on your personal preference, the Lightning may provide a sharper and more percussive sound compared to the Master. Keep in mind that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Lightning is noted for its subtle and polished typing experience. This means that the Lightning offers a gentle resistance and smooth key travel, creating a refined and slick feel when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Master provides a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and sleek typing experience that can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubrication.
In conclusion, both the KTT Lightning and Dareu Master linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a sharper, more percussive sound with a gentle resistance and polished feel, the KTT Lightning may be the better choice for you. Alternatively, if you're looking for a clacky sound profile with a mild and safe typing experience, the Dareu Master could be the ideal option. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Lightning linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. The Lightning switch with its light 50g bottom out force is ideal for those seeking a quick and responsive typing experience, especially in fast-paced gaming scenarios where every millisecond counts. The Master switch, on the other hand, provides a medium weight option with a classic clacky sound signature, perfect for users who prefer a smoother and more traditional typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
Mentioned in this article
