Dareu Master vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch to the Durock Piano linear switch, there are key differences to consider. The Master switch from Dareu is popular for its medium weight, classic clacky sound signature, and exceptional smoothness, making it a desirable option for those seeking a polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano switch is praised for its proprietary material blend, which provides a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature, creating a more bassy and frictionless typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and Durock Piano both feature POM housing for their switches, providing an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile. The Master's POM top and bottom housing create a deeper and relatively muted sound, while the Piano's proprietary POM blend top and bottom housing offer a similarly deep and satisfying sound profile. This similarity in housing material results in both keyboards producing high-quality sound experiences for users.
However, the difference in housing composition between the Master and the Piano lies in the proprietary blend used by Durock for the Piano's POM housing. While the exact details of this blend remain unknown, it is clear that Durock has designed their blend to offer a uniquely satisfying sound profile. This slight variation in housing material may result in subtle differences in sound quality between the two keyboards, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in the overall feel and sound of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the composition of the housing material in both the top and bottom parts of the switch contributes to the overall typing experience on keyboards like the Dareu Master and the Durock Piano.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch in terms of actuation and bottom out force, the Master is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Piano's actuation force is unknown. The Master also has an unknown bottom out force, whereas the Piano has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Master switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Piano switch. Both switches offer varying levels of actuation and bottom out force, providing options for users with different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Durock Piano linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Dareu Master has the shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Durock Piano's longer travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their preferences for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Master and Durock Piano linear switches will depend on whether you prioritize speed and responsiveness or a more tactile keystroke 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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 known for its classic clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch offers a deep and rich bassy sound profile during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. While the Master switch excels in producing a bright and percussive sound, the Piano switch creates a lower frequency sound that adds a sense of depth to typing experience. 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 linear switch offers users a mild and polished typing experience. With a gentle typing feel and a smooth, refined finish, the Master switch falls into a safe, middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch provides a frictionless and silky typing experience. Offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing feel, the Piano switch enhances overall smoothness and minimizes any sense of resistance or friction when pressing and releasing keys. The Piano switch delivers a fluid and gliding push feel that contributes to an enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, both the Dareu Master linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Master switch provides a clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, the Piano switch delivers a bassy sound and a frictionless, silky typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the bright and sharp sound of the Master switch or the deep and rich sound of the Piano switch. Ultimately, both switches offer smooth operation and exceptional qualities that make them standout linear switches in the mechanical keyboard market.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a switch with a medium weight and a classic clacky sound signature, along with exceptional smoothness, then the Dareu Master may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a deep, creamy sound signature, and a gliding push feel, then the Durock Piano linear switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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