Dareu Master vs. KTT MoonRosa
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the KTT MoonRosa switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Master and the KTT MoonRosa mechanical keyboard switches, both linear options stand out for their all-POM construction, offering a smooth typing experience. The Master switch from Dareu is loved for its medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness, falling under the categories of 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the MoonRosa switch by KTT boasts a buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press'. Each switch has its own unique attributes that cater to different preferences, making them both attractive choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and KTT MoonRosa both feature POM top and bottom housing materials, which create a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deep and relatively muted. This means that when typing on either of these keyboards, users can expect a similar auditory experience with a focus on a deeper sound and less pronounced keypress noise. The use of POM housing materials in both keyboards highlights a preference for a quieter typing experience with a more substantial feel to the keys.
However, while both the Dareu Master and KTT MoonRosa share POM housing materials for their switches, the qualities of these materials may be divided between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, whereas the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This distinction means that users may notice slight differences in the tactile feedback and sound profile of the switches between the two keyboards, even though they share the same POM housing material.
Overall, the similarities between the Dareu Master and KTT MoonRosa in terms of their POM housing materials suggest that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. Both keyboards prioritize a deeper, more muted sound profile, emphasizing a premium typing experience for users who prefer a quieter keyboard. The division of housing qualities between the top and bottom components also adds a nuanced touch to the typing experience, allowing users to feel the impact of both parts of the switch when interacting with the keyboard.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 45 grams compared to the KTT MoonRosa's 37 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the MoonRosa is lighter with 45 grams compared to the unknown force of the Master. The Master switch offers a lighter actuation force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the MoonRosa provides a heavier bottom out force, giving a more substantial typing experience to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can achieve their desired typing experience with either choice.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT MoonRosa linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches are considered to have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Master switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in a faster response time during gameplay. On the other hand, the MoonRosa switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be more favorable for those who prefer a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press 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 MoonRosa comes in at $4.88 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy tone that is crisp, bright, and percussive when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch provides a low-pitched sound, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow in comparison to higher-pitched switches. Both switches are constructed with all-POM material, but the difference in sound signature can significantly impact the overall typing experience based on personal preference and the specific setup of the keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Master linear switch is described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle actuation and overall smoothness in operation. The switch is polished, resulting in a refined finish that enhances the typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the KTT MoonRosa linear switch also offers a mild typing feel but is specifically designed to be easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate the keys. This light actuation force promotes effortless and comfortable typing, reducing finger fatigue during extended use.
Overall, both the Dareu Master linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch share similarities in providing a smooth and polished typing experience with a neutral sound signature. While the Dareu Master offers a clacky sound and a medium weight feel, the KTT MoonRosa delivers a low-pitched sound and easy-to-press keys. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, as they both offer high-quality performance for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the KTT MoonRosa linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and a clacky sound signature, along with a medium weight and polished feel, then the Dareu Master switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light 45-gram bottom out force, a low-pitched sound signature, and an easy-to-press, mild feel, then the KTT MoonRosa switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal typing style and the tactile experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
