Dareu Master vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Master and Cherry MX Black both offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Master's linear switch, known as The Master switch, is loved for its medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness, making it a great choice for those who prefer a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black, with its Hyperglide tooling and deep sound profile, is a go-to option for those who enjoy a lower-pitched and textured typing feel. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the Cherry MX Black both utilize different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Master uses POM for both the top and bottom housing, creating a unique and pleasing deeper sound profile that is relatively muted. On the other hand, the MX Black utilizes nylon for both top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound. While both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, the choice of housing material will impact the overall sound and feel of the switch.
However, despite the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Master and the Cherry MX Black, both switches share a similar goal of creating a satisfying typing experience. The POM top and bottom housing of the Master, as well as the nylon top and bottom housing of the MX Black, both aim to absorb sound and create a deeper sound profile for users. This results in a more muted and pleasing typing experience compared to switches with harder plastic housings. While the specific characteristics of the sound and feel may vary between the two switches, the overall goal of providing a unique typing experience remains consistent.
In terms of functionality, the choice of housing material in switches like the Dareu Master and the Cherry MX Black can significantly impact the user experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing means that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Users may prefer the deeper and fuller sound profile of the MX Black with nylon housing, while others may enjoy the more muted and unique sound of the POM housing in the Dareu Master. Ultimately, the housing material choice plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience and can vary depending on individual preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, the actuation force is where they differ significantly. The Master has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the MX Black's heavier 60 grams. This means that the Master switch will register keystrokes with a lighter touch compared to the MX Black. However, in terms of bottom out force, the MX Black is heavier at 80 grams, while the bottom out force of the Master is unknown. This indicates that the MX Black will require more pressure to fully press the key compared to the Master switch. Therefore, for those who prefer a lighter touch and actuation force, the Dareu Master linear switch would be the preferable option. On the other hand, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and don't mind a heavier touch, the Cherry MX Black linear switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer different experiences, with one being lighter and the other being heavier in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that the Master has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the MX Black's 4 mm. The 4.0mm travel distance of the MX Black is more traditional, while the shorter 3.0mm distance of the Master is preferred by gamers for faster response times. However, some may find the shorter travel distance of the Master to be too abrupt, and may prefer the longer travel distance of the MX Black for a more satisfying key press depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a clacky sound profile, delivering a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, giving users a satisfying auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch produces a low-pitched sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that will cater to different preferences, with the Master emphasizing a clacky sound and the MX Black offering a deeper, more subdued tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. The smooth and polished finish of the switch adds to the overall typing comfort, reducing friction and providing a sleek key travel experience. In contrast, the Cherry MX Black linear switch offers a textured feel, with noticeable friction when pressed. This texture may appeal to users who prefer a bit of resistance in their keystrokes, while the stiff nature of the switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Master focusing on a polished and refined feel, while the MX Black delivers a more tactile and resistant typing sensation.
Considering the information provided, it is evident that the Dareu Master linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Master switch provides a clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, the MX Black switch offers a low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired outcome. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience, providing users with a range of options to suit their individual needs.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, you should consider the differences in bottom out force, sound, and feel. 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 heavier switch with a low-pitched sound and a textured, stiff feel, the Cherry MX Black switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences and what feels most comfortable to you.
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