Dareu Master vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Dareu Master with its linear switch and the KTT Rose also known for its linear switch. The Dareu Master switch strikes a medium weight balance, providing a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness during operation. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch uses progressive springs to offer a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with a unique bassy raindrop sound. While the Master switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Rose switch is labeled as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their strengths and unique characteristics that may suit different preferences. However, let's dive 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
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
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and KTT Rose both utilize different materials for their housing, with the Master featuring a POM top housing and the Rose featuring a polycarbonate top housing. The POM top housing of the Master creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Rose produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Rose is especially useful for RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the POM top housing of the Master offers a unique sound experience. Despite their differences, both housing materials offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In addition to the top housing, the Dareu Master and KTT Rose also differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Master features a POM bottom housing, which complements its top housing by producing a pleasing and unique sound profile. On the other hand, the Rose utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. The nylon bottom housing of the Rose absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience. Overall, the bottom housing materials of both switches contribute to their overall sound profiles.
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Master and KTT Rose, it is important to consider how each material impacts the overall typing experience. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. The use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch allows for a unique combination of sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the deeper and muted sound of POM or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate, both the Dareu Master and KTT Rose offer a distinct typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the KTT Rose linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the KTT Rose has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Dareu Master is unavailable. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Dareu Master may be more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the KTT Rose with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose the one that best fits their preferences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is clear that the Dareu Master has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the KTT Rose has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Dareu Master may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the KTT Rose may appeal to those who prefer more depth in their keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and the feel of keypresses. Both switches offer different experiences, so it is important to consider personal preferences when choosing between them.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 known for its classic clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch offers a low-pitched and bassy tone, creating a more mellow and neutral sound profile. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Master being more crisp and percussive, while the Rose offers a deeper and more calming sound.
When it comes to feel, both the Dareu Master and KTT Rose linear switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for a wide range of users. Additionally, both switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The use of progressive springs in the Rose switch offers a uniquely substantial typing experience without being heavy, adding another layer of comfort to the typing feel.
Overall, the Dareu Master linear switch and KTT Rose linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Master switch provides a classic clacky sound signature with exceptional smoothness, while the Rose switch offers a low-pitched and bass-heavy tone with a substantial yet gentle typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, snappier sound or a deeper, more mellow tone, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with a polished finish. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force for a light and smooth typing experience, along with a classic clacky sound, then the Dareu Master linear switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a unique typing experience that offers a bassy raindrop sound profile, the KTT Rose linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Consider your desired typing feel, sound signature, and bottom out force when making your decision between these two switches.
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