Dareu Master vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master and Cherry Nixie both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Master switch is a linear switch known for its medium weight, classic clacky sound signature, and exceptional smoothness during operation. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is also a linear switch but is revered for its substantial heft, textured typing experience, and low-pitched sound profile. While the Master switch offers a polished and mild typing experience, the Nixie switch provides a thocky and textured feel. 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
63.5g
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
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 the Cherry Nixie both use different housing materials for their top and bottom components. The Master features a POM top housing, known for creating a unique and pleasing sound profile with a deeper and more muted tone. In contrast, the Nixie utilizes a nylon top housing, which also produces a deep and full sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. While both materials offer a similar deep sound profile, the POM top housing of the Master may provide a slightly different feel compared to the nylon top housing of the Nixie.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Dareu Master and the Cherry Nixie once again display differences in material choice. The Master opts for a POM bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of its top housing with a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Nixie features a nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic nature. Despite using different materials for the bottom housing, both switches are likely to offer a similar tactile experience with a focus on creating a deep and pleasing sound profile.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Dareu Master and the Cherry Nixie, it is evident that each component plays a crucial role in the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, the top housing has a significant impact on the sound when releasing the key. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of materials used for their top and bottom housings, creating a deep and pleasing sound that is tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, there are distinct differences worth noting. The Dareu Master has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Cherry Nixie's 63.5 grams, making the Master easier to trigger keystrokes with. However, the bottom out force for the Master is unknown, while the Nixie has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. This means that while the Nixie may provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force, the Master could be favored for longer typing sessions or gaming due to its lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference towards a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Nixie has a longer travel distance compared to the Master. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not seem significant, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Master switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Nixie switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel 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 Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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
The Dareu Master linear switch is known for its classic clacky sound signature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound profile is described as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory feedback to the user. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound experience, creating a deep, rich tone with a more bass-heavy and mellow quality. While both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall sound profile desired by the user.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master linear switch is praised for its mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle typing feel that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. The smooth and refined finish of these switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is noted for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture for added tactile feedback, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Ultimately, the feel of the switch is a crucial factor in determining the overall typing comfort and enjoyment for the user.
When considering the subjective qualities of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, it is clear that both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Master switch provides a clacky sound and a mild, polished typing feel, the Nixie switch delivers a thocky sound and a textured typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to tailor their typing experience to their liking. Whether opting for the classic clackiness of the Master switch or the rich thockiness of the Nixie switch, users can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter touch with a medium weight switch and a clacky sound, the Master may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier 80-gram bottom out force switch with a textured typing experience and a thocky, low-pitched sound, the Nixie may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of weight, sound, and feel. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to see which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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