Dareu Master vs. Outemu Silent White
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Outemu Silent White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch. The Dareu Master switch is highly regarded for its all-POM construction, offering a medium weight that gives users a classic clacky sound signature and smooth operation. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Master and Outemu Silent White switches offer unique characteristics that greatly influence the sound profile and overall typing experience. The Master's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound, creating a pleasant typing experience. In comparison, the Silent White's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those seeking a more defined typing feedback. The difference in sound profiles between the two top housings highlights how material choice can impact the overall feel of a switch.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Dareu Master's POM bottom housing mirrors the qualities of its top housing, delivering a consistent deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Silent White's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a fuller and rounder typing experience. The use of different materials for the bottom housing further enhances the distinct sound profiles of each switch, catering to a variety of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
While the top and bottom housings of the Dareu Master and Outemu Silent White switches offer different sound characteristics, the overall typing experience is a result of the combination of these materials. The impact of the bottom housing is felt during key presses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Both switches achieve satisfying typing experiences through their thoughtful choice of housing materials, catering to individuals seeking distinct sound profiles in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them quite similar in that aspect. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Master switch does not have a specified value while the Silent White requires 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the Outemu Silent White switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Dareu Master. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Dareu Master to be more suitable, as it lacks a designated bottom out force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push when typing may prefer the Outemu Silent White due to its heavier bottom out force of 60 grams. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch is slightly longer at 3.4 mm compared to the Outemu Silent White linear switch at 3.3 mm. While the difference between the two is minimal, it can still impact the typing experience for some users. Both switches fall within the shorter travel distance range, making them suitable for those who prioritize faster response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the quick actuation of keys provided by these switches. However, if you prefer a more substantial key press with a bit more depth, opting for the Dareu Master linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 White 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 switch offers a clacky sound signature, known for its sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a satisfying auditory feedback for users. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent White switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Master switch provides a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel for users. The switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This combination of mild and polished qualities makes the Master switch a pleasant option for those seeking a comfortable typing experience. Unfortunately, information on the exact feel of the Outemu Silent White switch is not available, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in this regard.
Overall, the Dareu Master linear switch stands out for its clacky sound signature and mild, polished feel, offering users a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a medium weight. While the qualities of the Outemu Silent White linear switch are not specified, it is possible that users may achieve similar results in sound and feel if they are looking for a switch with comparable characteristics to the Dareu Master. As always, personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the perfect keyboard switch, so trying out different options firsthand is recommended to find the best fit for individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Silent White linear switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you enjoy a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness in operation, the Dareu Master may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of 60 grams and are looking for a different typing experience, the Outemu Silent White could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what typing experience you are looking for. Consider these factors carefully before making your choice.
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