Dareu Master vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the linear Dareu Master and the tactile Gateron Mini i. The Dareu Master switch is known for its medium weight and classic clacky sound signature, providing exceptional smoothness in operation. The Gateron Mini i switches, on the other hand, offer gentle tactility in each keystroke, striking a balance between a fairly muted sound profile and satisfying feedback. The Master switch is ideal for those who prefer a polished and clacky typing experience, while the Mini i switches are perfect for users looking for a bouncy and easy-to-press switch without sacrificing the subtle tactility. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the Gateron Mini i both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Master features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. On the other hand, the Mini i utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a fuller, deeper sound profile that is rounder and duller due to the nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. Despite their differences in material, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of the top housing, the POM material used in the Master switch creates a pleasing and unique sound that is on the deeper side. In comparison, the nylon top housing of the Mini i offers a fuller sound profile that also leans towards the deeper end. Both materials have their own advantages, with POM providing a more muted sound while nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder tone. This showcases how housing materials can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound quality of a switch, catering to varying preferences in sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the differences between the POM and nylon materials are more subtle but still impactful. The POM bottom housing of the Master maintains the switch's pleasing and unique sound profile that is deep and muted, while the nylon bottom housing of the Mini i contributes to a fuller and deeper sound. The bottom housing plays a role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, influencing the overall typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their distinct housing materials, showcasing the importance of material selection in creating unique sound profiles for mechanical keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we can see differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Master has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Mini i's 40 grams. However, the Mini i has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is heavier than the Master's unknown bottom out force. If we assume that the bottom out force of the Master is around the actuation force of 45 grams, then both switches would have a similar feel when fully pressed. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Mini i for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may lean towards the heavier bottom out force of the Master for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that, when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance being traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch. Both switches offer a similar experience when it comes to key press depth.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 Dareu Master linear switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile that is moderately quiet, making it suitable for office environments where a quieter operation is preferred. Both switches have their own unique sound characteristics, with the Master switch offering a more pronounced and percussive sound compared to the Mini i switch's more subdued profile.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle keypress. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, and subtle, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. While the Master switch leans towards a more polished and smooth typing experience, the Mini i switch offers a lively and effortless typing experience with its bouncy and easy-to-press characteristics.
Overall, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offer distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Master switch provides a clacky and smooth typing experience, ideal for users who enjoy a pronounced sound and gentle keypress. In contrast, the Mini i switch offers a neutral and bouncy typing experience, making it suitable for office settings where a quiet and effortless typing experience is preferred. Depending on personal preferences and work environment, both switches can provide satisfying results, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the specific needs and preferences you have for your keyboard. If you value a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness for a satisfying typing experience, the Dareu Master linear switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a light switch with gentle tactility, a muted sound profile, and lightweight keys ideal for quiet and comfortable typing in office settings, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch would be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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