Dareu Master vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it's clear that they offer unique typing experiences. The Master switch from Dareu is praised for its medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness, making it ideal for users looking for a polished and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switches provide a quiet and highly tactile typing experience, with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke that is satisfyingly silent. Each switch has its own strengths and benefits, catering to different preferences and needs. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Silent Grey both offer unique housing materials that affect the sound profile of the switches. The Master's POM housing creates a deep and muted sound, while the Silent Grey's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The differences in these materials result in distinct typing experiences, with the Master providing a more soothing sound compared to the brighter sound of the Silent Grey.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the Silent Grey housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects due to its translucency. On the other hand, the POM housing of the Dareu Master may not have the same visual appeal but offers a unique sound profile that some users may prefer. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent Grey adds to its deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the POM bottom housing of the Master that complements its muted sound characteristics.
While the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Outemu Silent Grey differ in their impact on sound profiles, they both play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of a switch mean that the bottom housing can influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the soothing and muted sound of the POM housing or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences in typing experiences.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Master does not have information available, while the Silent Grey has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Master switch, as it requires less force to actuate, making it more suitable for typing for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch, with its higher actuation force and bottom out force, may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial and deliberate typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and weight preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that the Master has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Silent Grey's 4 mm. The Master's 3.4 mm travel distance provides a quicker response time, making it ideal for gamers seeking faster input feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Grey's 4 mm travel distance offers a more substantial key press depth, which some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and desired typing or gaming experience. Both switches provide unique benefits, with the Master offering speed and the Silent Grey offering depth in key presses.
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 Silent Grey 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 nature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offers a quiet typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subdued sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Master switch delivering a classic clacky sound while the Silent Grey switch ensures a quieter typing environment.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish, providing a smooth and refined keypress. The Silent Grey switch, on the other hand, offers a highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. While the Master switch appeals to users looking for a gentler typing feel, the Silent Grey switch caters to those who enjoy a more tactile and responsive keypress.
Overall, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Master switch provides a classic clacky sound with a mild and polished typing experience, while the Silent Grey switch offers a quiet and tactile typing experience. Choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience based on their unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-weight linear switch with a clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Master switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a quiet typing experience and a pronounced bump, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is the way to go. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style. Choose the switch that best suits your typing needs and preferences for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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