Dareu Master vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master and the Outemu Gold offer distinct experiences to suit different preferences. The Dareu Master features The Master switch, a linear switch made entirely of POM material, striking a medium weight that provides a classic clacky sound signature and smooth operation. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that offers a different typing experience. The Gold switch does not have a specific feature that it is best known for, but it is categorized as a tactile and clicky switch. If you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Dareu Master may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with audible feedback, the Outemu Gold switch might be more suitable. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Gold have distinct differences in their housing materials. The Master uses POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Gold has a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The use of polycarbonate in the Gold's top housing also allows for the option of RGB lighting due to its translucency, which is not a feature of the Master.
While the Dareu Master and Outemu Gold have different housing materials for their top and bottom parts, they both aim to provide a unique sound profile for typing. The POM top and bottom housings on the Master create a pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively muted. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing in the Gold contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct acoustic qualities.
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Outemu Gold, it is evident that the choice of material significantly impacts the sound profile of the switch. While the Master's POM housing creates a more muted and deeper sound, the Gold's mixture of polycarbonate and nylon results in a sharper and fuller sound when typing. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Master and the Outemu Gold will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning you will get a similar typing experience when it comes to triggering keystrokes on both switches. However, the bottom out force differs between the two. The Master has no information available on its bottom out force, while the Gold has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Master may be more suitable due to the lack of information on the bottom out force. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel, the Gold may be the better option with its medium bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have different travel distances. The Master has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gold has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Master's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Gold's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer more depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific 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 Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10 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 is best known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have a specific sound description provided. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Master switch is characterized as offering a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. This provides users with a comfortable and approachable typing feel that falls into a safe middle-ground zone. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Outemu Gold clicky switch is not provided, making it difficult to directly compare it with the Dareu Master in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
Overall, based on the information available, the Dareu Master linear switch seems to excel in providing a clacky sound signature and a smooth, polished feel for users seeking a medium-weight switch. While the Outemu Gold clicky switch lacks specific sound and feel descriptions, it is possible to infer that it may offer a different experience compared to the Dareu Master. To achieve similar results in sound and feel, it is essential to consider factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps, and personal preferences when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness in operation, then the Dareu Master linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium weight switch with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, the Outemu Gold clicky switch could be more fitting. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preferences for both sound and feel, so take into account these factors when making your decision.
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