Dareu Master vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer unique experiences for users. The Master switch from Dareu is a linear switch made of all-POM material, providing a medium weight option with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptionally smooth operation. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze is a clicky switch that doesn't have a specific standout feature but falls into the clicky switch category. The Master switch may appeal to those looking for a polished, mild typing experience, while the Spring Breeze is a solid choice for those who enjoy the satisfying clicky sound while typing. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze utilize different housing materials in their design, with the Master featuring POM housings while the Spring Breeze uses nylon. While both materials contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, POM is known for creating a more muted sound compared to the relatively softer plastic of nylon which absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon, making it a classic switch housing material.
The top housing of the Dareu Master is made of POM, creating an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side. This is contrasted with the nylon top housing of the Outemu Spring Breeze, which also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. However, the POM housing of the Master may provide a slightly more muted sound compared to the nylon housing of the Spring Breeze. These differences in sound profile can impact the overall typing experience for the user, with each material offering its own distinct qualities.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the Dareu Master and the Outemu Spring Breeze, both POM and nylon housings contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. While the POM bottom housing of the Master creates a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side, the nylon bottom housing of the Spring Breeze also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. Understanding how each housing material affects the sound and feel of the switches can help users make an informed decision based on their personal preferences.
Weight
The actuation force of the Dareu Master linear switch is slightly heavier at 45 grams compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch at 40 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Spring Breeze is heavier at 55 grams, while the bottom out force for the Master switch is unknown. This means that while the Spring Breeze requires a lighter initial force to register a keystroke, it will require more force to fully press the key compared to the Master switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Spring Breeze, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Dareu Master. In either case, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces with both switches. Weight considerations should be taken into account depending on personal preferences for typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Master switch would provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switch offers a longer travel distance, which some users may find more comforting and less abrupt when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their preference for responsiveness or depth in keystrokes.
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 Spring Breeze 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 classic clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound is crisp, bright, and percussive, offering a satisfying auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have any specific information available regarding its sound characteristics. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience with a polished finish. This means that users can expect a gentle and approachable typing feel, with smooth and refined key travel due to the switch's design and possibly factory lubing. The Master switch falls into a safe middle-ground zone, appealing to a wide range of users who prefer a comfortable typing experience. As for the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, there is no specific information available regarding its tactile feel.
Considering the information available, it is clear that the Dareu Master linear switch offers a clacky sound and a mild, polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have specific details provided for either sound or feel. Therefore, if you are looking for a linear switch with a classic clacky sound and a smooth typing feel, the Dareu Master would be a reliable choice. It is important to try out switches for yourself to determine which one best suits your preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, consider the following guidelines: opt for the Master switch if you prefer a medium weight linear switch that provides a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, choose the Spring Breeze clicky switch if you prefer a medium-light switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams. The Spring Breeze is known for its satisfying clicky sound, but lacks any specific standout feature like the Master's all-POM construction. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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