Dareu Master vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Master and KTT Miaowu are two popular options to consider. The Dareu Master boasts its all-POM linear switch known as The Master, offering a medium weight with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness during operation. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu features the Miaowu switch, utilizing POK in its stem for enhanced stability and smoother keystroke action, setting it apart from other switches with conventional POM stems. The Master switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', 'Polished', while the Miaowu switch falls under 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that make them attractive choices for different preferences. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the KTT Miaowu both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Master's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the Miaowu's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Miaowu is perfect for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the POM housing of the Master provides a more classic look.
The differences in the bottom housing materials of the Dareu Master and the KTT Miaowu also impact the sound profile of the switches. The nylon bottom housing of the Miaowu generates a deeper and fuller sound, while the POM bottom housing of the Master delivers a more muted sound. The softer nature of the nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM housing.
While the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the KTT Miaowu offer distinctive qualities, the impact of these materials on the overall sound profile of the switches varies. The split between top and bottom housing materials affects the sound and feel of pressing down on the switch. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Miaowu linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. The bottom out force for the Dareu Master is unknown, while the KTT Miaowu has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option. The actuation force of both switches is relatively close, so users can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu is lighter, which may be preferable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Dareu Master may be favored by users who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. Both switches fall on the shorter end of the spectrum when compared to the traditional 4.0mm travel distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dareu Master for faster response times, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may lean towards the KTT Miaowu with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and how much travel distance you prefer in your keystrokes.
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 Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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, both the Dareu Master and the KTT Miaowu switches are described as producing a clacky sound when pressed. This means that users can expect a sharp, snappy, and percussive sound with both switches. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Master switch is said to offer a mild and polished typing experience. This means that users can enjoy a gentle typing feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone, as well as a smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu switch is described as providing a bouncy sensation, giving users a spring-like and elastic feedback when pressing the keys. This would give a more lively feel compared to the polished feel of the Master switch.
In conclusion, while both the Dareu Master and the KTT Miaowu switches share a clacky sound signature, they differ in the typing feel they offer. The Master switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, while the Miaowu switch offers a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for typing feel, as both switches are expected to deliver similar sound qualities.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a switch with enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, the KTT Miaowu switch would be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for weight, sound, and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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