Dareu Master vs. Haimu Orange Sea
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Haimu Orange Sea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Master and Haimu Orange Sea each present unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The Dareu Master, designed with an all-POM construction, strikes a medium weight that produces a distinct clacky sound signature, making it a satisfying choice for those who appreciate auditory feedback and smooth operation in their typing experience. Its polished performance appeals to users seeking both responsiveness and a classic tactile experience. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switches offer an impeccably smooth typing feel with a neutral sound signature, making them ideal for those who favor a quieter, yet still engaging, typing experience. Their invigorating characteristics may resonate with users looking for a switch that enhances their overall comfort and minimizes fatigue during long typing sessions. 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Haimu Orange Sea switches reveal significant contrasts that influence their overall auditory performance. The Dareu Master features a POM (Polyoxymethylene) top housing, which is known for producing a sound profile that is deeper and more muted. This results in a unique auditory experience that many users find appealing as it creates a more subdued and pleasing sound. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The inherent stiffness of polycarbonate allows for greater clarity and resonance, making it particularly effective for those seeking distinct sound feedback, especially if RGB lighting is involved due to its translucent nature.
Examining the bottom housings further accentuates the differences between the two switches. Both the Dareu Master and the Haimu Orange Sea aim for distinctive sound signatures, but they achieve this through the different materials used. The Master incorporates a POM bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and more muted auditory effect similar to its top housing. Conversely, the Orange Sea employs a nylon bottom housing, which tends to lend a fuller sound profile that is duller and rounder due to nylon's softer and more absorbent qualities. This difference exemplifies how the characteristics of each material directly influence the sound quality produced when a key is pressed, as the bottom housing has a more pronounced impact on the bottom-out sound.
When comparing the two switches, it becomes clear that while they utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, each brings unique qualities to the overall typing experience. If one were to design a switch with the same materials for both the top and bottom housings, they might achieve similar sound profiles. However, the Dareu Master's combination of POM throughout lends itself to a consistently deep and muted sound, while the Haimu Orange Sea’s distinct combination of polycarbonate and nylon creates a perfectly blended effect of clarity and fullness. Ultimately, the choice of materials in these switches not only delineates auditory characteristics but also presents personalized options for users based on their desired sound aesthetics in a mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, notable differences emerge in their actuation forces. The Master switch requires an actuation force of 45 grams, making it heavier, while the Orange Sea is lighter at 37 grams. This difference means that typists using the Orange Sea may experience less fatigue during extended use, making it a preferable choice for those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Orange Sea is 45 grams, indicating a consistent feedback as the switch is fully depressed. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Master switch is unknown, leaving uncertainty regarding how it compares in terms of bottoming out feel. Overall, if you prefer a lighter typing experience, the Haimu Orange Sea is the recommended option, while the Dareu Master switch caters to those who favor a heavier, more substantial feel when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference between the two. The Dareu Master features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Haimu Orange Sea offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that if you're looking for a more responsive experience, the shorter travel distance of the Dareu Master might suit your needs better, as it allows for quicker keypresses that are often favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea, with its additional length, may provide a more substantial tactile experience that some users prefer, as the greater depth can feel less abrupt. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed or a more pronounced feedback when typing or gaming.
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 Haimu Orange Sea comes in at $2.79 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 presents a classic clacky sound signature, producing a sharp, bright, and percussive noise with each keystroke. This distinctive sound can be quite satisfying for users who enjoy an audible feedback from their typing experience. In contrast, the Haimu Orange Sea switch offers a more neutral sound signature, which implies a quieter and less pronounced auditory feedback, allowing for a more understated typing experience. The difference in sound profiles means that if you're seeking a lively, clacky keyboard, the Master would be the preferred option, whereas the Orange Sea would suit those who prefer a more subdued atmosphere.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master switch embodies a polished typing experience, characterized by smooth key travel and reduced friction, which enhances overall performance and comfort. This smoothness is a result of quality materials and potentially factory lubing, leading to an effortless typing sensation. On the other hand, the Haimu Orange Sea switch is described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a medium tactile sensation. While it doesn’t have the same smoothness as the Master, the Orange Sea provides a snappy and responsive feel that can be engaging for users who enjoy more tactile feedback during their typing sessions. Thus, while both offer distinct mechanical qualities, the Master favors a smooth experience while the Orange Sea focuses on providing tactile clarity.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a more pronounced auditory experience, the Dareu Master switch’s clacky sound may be the way to go, combined with its exceptionally smooth feel. Alternatively, the Haimu Orange Sea is a solid choice if you prefer a more neutral sound and an invigorating tactile sensation. Ultimately, your decision may hinge on whether you value auditory feedback and polished operation over tactile feedback and engagement, as both switches cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you appreciate a medium weight with a classic clacky sound and polished feel, the Master switch could be your ideal choice, especially if you enjoy subtle auditory feedback while typing. This switch's smooth operation makes it suitable for both gaming and typing scenarios where a bit of sound can enhance your experience. Conversely, if you prefer a switch with a light actuation force and an impeccably smooth yet neutral sound signature, the Haimu Orange Sea switches would be more fitting. They strike a balance with an invigorating feel that offers pronounced feedback, making them great for those who seek a responsive typing experience without overwhelming sound. Thus, your choice will depend on whether you value smoothness and clarity in auditory feedback with the Master or a lightweight and highly responsive feel with the Orange Sea. Consider your typing style and what aspects matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard to make the best decision.
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