Dareu Master vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Master linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch. The Dareu Master switch is praised for its medium weight and classic clacky sound signature, while also offering exceptional smoothness during operation. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel with a lower-than-average sound frequency. The Master switch is categorized as clacky, mild, and polished, while the Blueberry switch is categorized as snappy, buttery, low-pitched, textured, resonant, invigorating, and stiff. Both switches have their unique strengths, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive deeper into the specifics so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Master and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry utilize POM material for their housing components, which results in a similar sound profile that is described as pleasing and unique. The POM material in both switches creates a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted compared to other housing materials. This similarity in housing material contributes to a consistent experience in terms of sound when typing on both switches.
While both switches share the same POM housing material for their top and bottom components, the impact of these housing materials differs in terms of sound and feel. The bottom housing of the switch has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, providing a tactile response to the user. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when the key is released, offering a unique typing experience. This distinction showcases the attention to detail in the design of each switch to create a balanced and satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry contribute to the overall typing experience by offering a consistent and unique sound profile. Despite the similarities in their POM housing material, the distinctive qualities of the bottom and top housing components provide a nuanced typing experience for users. Whether typing on the Master or the Blueberry, users can expect a pleasing sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted, showcasing the attention to detail and craftsmanship in both switches.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier. The bottom out force for the Master switch is unknown, while the Blueberry switch has a bottom out force of 80 grams, indicating that it requires more force to fully press down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations, the Master switch may be more suitable, while the Blueberry switch would be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial and tactile feel while typing. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience and preference of users.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch is 3.4 mm, while the travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is 4 mm. In this case, the NovelKeys Blueberry has a longer travel distance compared to the Dareu Master. The shorter travel distance of the Master may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Blueberry may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preferences, with the shorter distance providing quicker actuation and the longer distance offering a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 classic clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch produces a lower-than-average sound frequency with a deeper tone that is not overly loud or distracting. The Blueberry switch also offers a resonant sound profile that is clean and sharp, adding an immersive element to the typing experience. Overall, both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Master switch leaning towards a clacky sound and the Blueberry switch offering a deeper and resonant tone.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, catering to a wide range of users with its gentle feel and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offers a snappy and buttery typing sensation that is super responsive and fluid, creating a seamless and uniform keystroke experience. Additionally, the Blueberry switch features a textured feel that adds a unique tactile element to the typing experience, making it invigorating for users who prefer pronounced feedback and a firm actuation force. Overall, both switches offer distinct tactile characteristics that appeal to different typing preferences, with the Master switch providing a polished and mild feel and the Blueberry switch offering a snappy and textured typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Master switch stands out for its classic clacky sound and mild, polished feel, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who appreciate a medium-weight switch with smooth operation. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch is distinguished by its lower-pitched and resonant sound profile, as well as its snappy, buttery, and textured feel that adds a tactile element to the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with a lower-than-average sound frequency and a snappy typing feel, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. It is important to test out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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