Dareu Master vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it's clear that they each offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Master switch is praised for its medium weight and classic clacky sound signature, providing exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, the Quinn switch stands out for its crisp, light tactility and deep, resonant sound profile, adding character to the typing experience with each keystroke. While the Master switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, the Quinn switch provides a snappy, bassy, and bouncy feel. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different typing preferences. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the Gateron Quinn both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Master utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deep and relatively muted sound. On the other hand, the Quinn features nylon for both the top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Both switches offer a pleasing sound, but the Master's POM housing may provide a slightly rounder and duller sound compared to the Quinn's nylon housing.
However, if we were to compare the top and bottom housing materials individually, we would see a difference in sound profiles between the Dareu Master and the Gateron Quinn. The Master's POM top housing creates a unique sound profile with a deeper tone, while the Quinn's nylon top housing offers a fuller sound due to its softer nature. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the Master contributes to a deep and muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Quinn absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound. These differences show how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience of a switch.
In terms of impact on sound and feel, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch when pressed. The top housing, on the other hand, affects the sound when a key is released. This means that the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom can greatly influence the overall typing experience. While the Dareu Master and Gateron Quinn have different housing materials for both the top and bottom, they each offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the deep and muted sound of POM or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch with a heavier actuation force of 59 grams. The Master switch does not have an available bottom out force, while the Quinn switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Master switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Quinn switch. Both switches provide different tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing or gaming needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch are both 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. The consistency in travel distance between the two switches allows for a similar typing experience in terms of key feel and responsiveness. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with their equal travel distances.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 provides a classic clacky sound that is sharp, bright, and percussive, adding a crisp and lively auditory experience to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch produces a deep and resonant bassy sound, offering a rich and immersive audio profile with each keystroke. While both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, users seeking a sharper tone may prefer the Master, while those looking for a deeper, more resonant sound may lean towards the Quinn.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with gentle tactility and smooth key travel, making it approachable and versatile for most users. In contrast, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a snappy and bouncy feel, thanks to its responsive nature and elastic feedback sensation. Additionally, the Quinn switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience akin to gliding across the keys with ease. Whether you prefer a mild and polished typing feel or a snappy and bouncy feedback, both switches offer unique tactile qualities that cater to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Dareu Master linear switch and Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Master switch provides a clacky sound and a mild, polished feel, the Quinn switch offers a bassy sound and a snappy, buttery feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, tactility, and keypress experience, with both options providing quality performance for typing enthusiasts. Additionally, it is important to consider other factors such as keyboard layout, keycaps, and personal typing style when selecting the ideal switch for a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a smooth and medium-weight keystroke with a classic clacky sound, the Dareu Master switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a crisp and tactile typing experience with a deep, resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your individual typing style and what features you prioritize the most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Happy typing!
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