Dareu Master vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch to the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, we can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Master switch, known for its medium weight and classic clacky sound signature, offers exceptional smoothness in operation, making it a popular choice among users. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch is described as subdued and gentle, with an easy push and a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. While both switches fall under the 'Mild' and 'Polished' categories, the Master switch leans more towards a clacky feel while the Meteor White switch provides a thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and requirements. 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
57g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and SP-Star Meteor White both have unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Master features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound when typing. On the other hand, the Meteor White uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a pleasing and unique typing experience with their housing materials.
In terms of the top housing, the Dareu Master's POM material offers a deep and pleasing sound when keys are released. This is in contrast to the SP-Star Meteor White's nylon top housing, which also provides a fuller sound profile with a rounder tone. However, the nylon material's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound compared to the POM material. Both housing materials contribute to a unique typing experience, with the POM material offering a more muted sound compared to the nylon material.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Dareu Master and SP-Star Meteor White aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their respective materials. The POM bottom housing of the Master provides a deep and pleasing sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Meteor White offers a fuller and rounder sound. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel is significant, with the softer nylon material absorbing more sound compared to the POM material. Overall, both switches strive to deliver a unique sound profile and typing experience through their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is evident that they both offer different characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Master has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, providing a lighter touch for swift typing or gaming. However, the bottom out force for the Master is unknown, which could potentially result in a softer or more undefined typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, offering a firmer and more substantial typing feel. Although the actuation force for the Meteor White is not specified, it is clear that it provides a medium-light bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether one prefers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or a heavier push for a more satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it a bit shorter than the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Master switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch offers a slightly deeper keypress experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more robust feel while typing or gaming. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Master linear switch is known for its clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, crisp, bright, and percussive when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a gentle pitter-patter sound, and it can also provide a thocky sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. Depending on your personal preference, the Master switch may be more appealing if you enjoy a more pronounced and classic clacky sound, while the Meteor White switch may be preferred for its softer and more subdued sound profile.
When it comes to feel, both the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switches offer a mild typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel for most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes them both suitable options for those looking for a comfortable and smooth typing experience without any extreme characteristics.
Taking into account the sound and feel qualities of both switches, it's evident that the Dareu Master and SP-Star Meteor White linear switches offer similar characteristics in terms of feel and sound. While the Master switch may provide a more pronounced clacky sound compared to the Meteor White switch, both switches offer a mild and polished typing experience that is suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and whether you prefer a slightly sharper or softer sound when typing.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider the characteristics that best suit your preferences. If you enjoy a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and smooth operation, the Master switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile that is easy to push, the Meteor White switch could be more to your liking. Both switches offer a mild typing experience with polished finishes, so it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in terms of weight and sound profile. Choose wisely based on what feels and sounds best to you.
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