Dareu Master vs. Outemu Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Outemu Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master and the Outemu Milk Tea offer different typing experiences that cater to varying preferences. The Dareu Master features the master switch, a linear switch made of POM that strikes a medium weight for its users. Known for its classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation, the master switch falls under the categories of 'clacky', 'mild', and 'polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea is a tactile switch with a unique name but lacks specific standout features. Despite being categorized as average, the Milk Tea switch offers a tactile feedback that some users prefer for increased typing accuracy. If you're looking for a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Dareu Master may be the way to go. 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
N/A
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and Outemu Milk Tea both utilize unique housing materials to create distinct sound profiles. The Master's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, creating a subtle typing experience. In contrast, the Milk Tea's Ly top housing offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, resulting in a more pronounced and lively typing sound. While both materials contribute to the overall sound of the switch, they offer contrasting auditory experiences for the user.
In terms of bottom housings, the Dareu Master's POM material continues to deliver a deep and muted sound profile. This consistency throughout the housing components maintains a cohesive typing experience with a focus on a quieter sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea's nylon bottom housing introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the overall sound of the switch. The combination of different housing materials in the Milk Tea results in a more dynamic and varied sound output compared to the Master.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Master and Outemu Milk Tea impacts the sound and feel of typing on the switches. While the Master offers a consistent and subdued sound with its POM components, the Milk Tea provides a more diverse and vibrant typing experience with its use of both Ly and nylon materials. Understanding how top and bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound profile can help individuals tailor their switch preferences to their desired typing experience. Ultimately, whether seeking a deep and muted sound or a bright and resonant typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities to cater to different user preferences.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch both have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for both switches is unknown. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the lighter category, making them suitable for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where fatigue can be a concern. Some users may prefer a heavier switch for a more tactile typing experience, in which case they may opt for a switch with a higher actuation force. Overall, both the Dareu Master and Outemu Milk Tea switches offer a similar typing experience due to their equal actuation forces, making them a good choice for those who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, it is evident that the Master has a shorter travel distance at 3.4 mm compared to the Milk Tea's 4 mm travel distance. The 3.4mm distance of the Master switch falls within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Milk Tea switch is more traditional and may offer a deeper key press experience for those who prefer it. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Tea 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 signature, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This provides a satisfying auditory feedback for users who enjoy a crisp and bright sound while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used to determine the overall sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a mild typing experience due to its medium weight, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch is also known for its polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. This combination of qualities provides a pleasant typing experience for those looking for a balance between comfort and responsiveness. As for the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, information on its feel characteristics is currently unavailable, so it is recommended to consider personal preferences and typing habits when deciding if this switch is suitable.
Overall, both the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Master switch is praised for its clacky sound and mild, polished feel, the Milk Tea switch may provide a different typing experience that could be equally satisfying. It is important for newcomers to consider factors such as sound, feel, and personal preferences when choosing between these switches to ensure an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch, you'll want to choose the Master if you prefer a medium weight linear switch with a clacky sound profile and exceptional smoothness in operation. The Master switch is best suited for those who enjoy a classic clacky sound and a polished typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a different feel and sound profile, the Milk Tea may be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision on which switch to choose will depend on your personal preference for switch weight, sound, and typing experience.