Dareu Master vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Master and Kailh Plum offer contrasting experiences that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Master, with its linear switch, is celebrated for its medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum stands out with its tactile switch that feels hefty but lacks a prominent tactile bump, resulting in a unique typing experience with a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. While the Master switch is known for its polished and clacky feel, the Plum switch offers a stepped and mild tactility. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 Kailh Plum both feature top housings that contribute significantly to the sound profile of the switch. The Master's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Plum's polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Plum switch allows for a clearer and more resonant sound, especially when using RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the POM housing of the Master switch provides a more unique and subtle sound profile that may appeal to users seeking a quieter typing experience.
While the top housings of the Dareu Master and Kailh Plum switches offer distinct sound profiles, their bottom housings also play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The Master's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound, aligning with the top housing's characteristics. On the other hand, the Plum's nylon bottom housing results in a fuller and rounder sound profile, creating a different typing experience compared to the Master switch. The use of nylon in the Plum switch absorbs more sound, leading to a duller but more satisfying typing sound for some users.
When using switches with different top and bottom housings like the Dareu Master and Kailh Plum, it's important to consider how each material impacts the overall typing experience. The bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the deeper and muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Master and Kailh Plum will depend on personal preference for typing sound and feel.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Plum switch is heavier with 70 grams compared to the Master's unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Master for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Plum for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances, making them suitable for those seeking quick response times, such as gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to the average user, but it can impact the overall feel of the key press. The Master switch may provide a slightly quicker response due to its shorter travel distance, while the Plum switch may offer a slightly more pronounced tactile feedback with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for the feel and responsiveness desired.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 classic clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This sound profile is crisp, bright, and percussive, offering a satisfying auditory experience for users. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. This moderate sound profile ensures a pleasant typing experience without being too loud or distracting.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Dareu Master and Kailh Plum switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Dareu Master switch is known for its exceptional smoothness in operation, providing a polished and refined typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, users can enjoy a sleek and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a unique tactile experience with a hefty feel but a subtle tactile bump. This stepped tactile feedback provides a mild and gentle typing experience, with a balance between tactility and smoothness.
Overall, the Dareu Master linear switch and Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Master switch provides a clacky sound signature and polished feel, the Plum switch offers a neutral sound profile and stepped tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches provide excellent options for users looking for a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and classic linear switch with a medium weight and clacky sound, the Dareu Master switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, neutral sound profile, and a stepped feel that offers a more gentle typing experience, then the Kailh Plum switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Choose wisely and enjoy your mechanical keyboard journey!
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