Dareu Master vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Dareu Master and the Outemu Milk Blue. The Dareu Master features the Master switch, an all-POM linear switch known for its medium weight, classic clacky sound, and smooth operation. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch with no specific standout feature. The Master switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished', while the Milk Blue does not have any specific categories. Choosing the Master switch may be ideal for those who value smoothness and a classic sound signature, while the Milk Blue switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a clicky 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Outemu Milk Blue, we see that the Master utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Milk Blue features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This difference in housing materials leads to a contrasting sound experience between the two switches, with the Master offering a more subdued sound and the Milk Blue providing a crisper and more resonant tone.
Although the top housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Outemu Milk Blue differ, they share some similarities when it comes to sound profiles. Both the POM top housing of the Master and the polycarbonate top housing of the Milk Blue result in unique and pleasing sound profiles. While the POM top housing creates a deeper sound, the polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, both materials allow for the transmission of RGB lighting, making them ideal choices for switches if RGB lighting is a priority. Despite the differences in their sound characteristics, the top housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Outemu Milk Blue offer similar benefits in terms of sound quality and visual aesthetics.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Dareu Master, the POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Milk Blue creates a sharper and more resonant sound. By utilizing different housing materials for the top and bottom, each switch is able to offer a unique sound experience that is influenced by the specific qualities of POM, polycarbonate, and nylon. Ultimately, the choice between the Master and the Milk Blue will depend on individual preferences for sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is clear that the Master is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it difficult to determine which one requires more force to fully press. The Master switch would be better suited for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Milk Blue switch would appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a bit more resistance. Overall, the selection between the two switches would come down to personal preference based on the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Milk Blue switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Master switch. The Master switch's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Milk Blue switch's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding the travel distance that feels most comfortable and responsive to the individual 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 Milk Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Master linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch does not have a specific sound descriptor available. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. This switch strikes a medium weight that is approachable to most users, providing a safe middle-ground typing experience. On the contrary, information on the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is not available.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a clacky sound signature and a mild, polished feel, the Dareu Master linear switch would be a great choice. While the subjective qualities of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch are unknown, based on the available information, the Dareu Master linear switch seems to offer a smoother and more refined typing experience. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel depending on personal preferences and the specific setup being used.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a medium-weight linear switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness in operation, the Dareu Master switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a bottom out force that offers a different typing experience, the Outemu Milk Blue switch might be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and medium weight or prefer the distinctive clicky sound and feel of the Milk Blue switch.
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