Dareu Master vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Master and the Gateron Melodic are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics for users to consider. The Dareu Master, with its linear switch, is known for providing a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, is reinvigorating the category with advancements such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, ensuring users can enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback without sacrificing smoothness. Each switch offers its own benefits, whether it be the medium weight and polished feel of the Master or the buttery and resonant qualities of the Melodic. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the Gateron Melodic both offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Master uses a POM top housing, which creates a deep and relatively muted sound, while the Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and higher-pitched sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Melodic allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing touch. On the other hand, the Master's POM bottom housing contributes to its pleasing sound profile, while the Melodic's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Gateron Melodic both play a significant role in shaping the overall sound experience of the switches. While the Master's POM top and bottom housings create a consistent deep and muted sound profile, the Melodic's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings offer a contrast of sharpness and fullness in sound. The choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics, with the Master providing a more uniform sound experience and the Melodic offering a dynamic sound range.
In terms of functionality, the impact of the housing materials can be felt differently when using the switches. The bottom housing of a switch has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the Dareu Master and Gateron Melodic would offer different tactile experiences based on their housing materials, with the POM and polycarbonate top housings delivering distinct tactile feedback. Overall, both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in defining the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Melodic clicky switch which has an unknown actuation force. This means that the Master switch will require less force to register a keystroke. On the other hand, the Melodic switch has a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience when compared to the Master switch, whose bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions, the Dareu Master switch may be the preferred choice. However, for those who enjoy a more tactile and firm feel when typing, the Gateron Melodic switch with its heavier bottom out force may be more suitable. In summary, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer different typing experiences based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Master switch would provide a slightly quicker response time compared to the Melodic switch due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the Melodic switch offers a bit more depth in key press, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Both switches offer different characteristics in terms of travel distance, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
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 Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Dareu Master linear switch offers a classic clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive, providing users with a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch produces a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp, with a crunchy element that adds a unique texture to the typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Master being more traditional and the Melodic incorporating modern advancements for a unique clicky sound.
In terms of feel, the Master linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The smoothness and refined finish of the switch contribute to a sleek and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is described as buttery and invigorating, with a smooth and fluid keystroke that is seamless and effortless. The pronounced feedback and snappy feel of the Melodic switch create a more immersive typing sensation that may appeal to those seeking a more tactile experience.
Overall, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Master switch provides a classic clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, the Melodic switch introduces a modern twist with a resonant, crunchy sound and a buttery, invigorating feel. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, with both options promising a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a classic clacky sound and smooth operation, the Dareu Master linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a resounding and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch may be more suited to your typing style. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so make sure to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch will depend on what sound and feel qualities you prioritize in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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