Dareu Master vs. Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, choosing the right switch can significantly enhance your typing or gaming experience. The Dareu Master switch offers a unique blend of a clacky sound signature and smooth operation, making it an appealing choice for users who appreciate tactile feedback and a classic auditory response. Its all-POM construction contributes to its durability and reliability while striking a medium weight that many users find comfortable. On the other hand, the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie presents a compelling option for those who prefer a thocky sound profile, also built with all-POM materials for lasting quality. Like the Master, the Smoothie provides an enjoyable typing feel, but its distinct sound and budget-friendly pricing may attract users looking for efficient performance without breaking the bank. Both switches offer exceptional smoothness, yet they cater to different auditory preferences and ergonomic needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie switches, it is evident that they share a commonality in their use of Polyoxymethylene (POM) for both the top and bottom housings. Both switches are designed to produce an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards a deeper, more muted characteristic. This similarity indicates that users can expect comparable acoustic performance from both switches, as POM is known for its sound-dampening properties that enhance the overall typing experience. Therefore, individuals who appreciate the sound profile of one switch might find the other equally satisfying due to the inherent qualities of POM.
While both switches utilize POM for their housing, it is essential to recognize that the interaction between the top and bottom housings in each switch plays a crucial role in the overall feel and sound. The bottom housing, which can absorb more impact during bottoming out, contributes to the sound and tactile feedback felt during keystrokes. In both switches, the POM material helps maintain that muted yet rich acoustic quality, creating a consistent typing experience across both options. However, if either switch were designed with different materials for the top and bottom housings, users would experience variations in sound and feel depending on which material was used in each component.
Ultimately, the Dareu Master and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie both leverage the advantages of POM to deliver a similar auditory experience, allowing for a well-rounded and muted sound signature. Whether one chooses the Master or the Sea Salt Smoothie, the resulting performance will be substantially alike due to their identical housing materials. As a result, users can confidently choose either switch, knowing that they will enjoy a comparable deep and pleasing sound profile that enhances their overall typing enjoyment.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch, the actuation forces reveal a notable difference. The Master switch requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Sea Salt Smoothie demands a slightly heavier 48 grams to trigger a keystroke. This distinction may appeal to different users, as those preferring a lighter touch might find the Master more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out forces for both switches remain unknown, making it impossible to directly compare this aspect. Nevertheless, since the Master has a lower actuation force, it can be inferred that it may provide a smoother, less strenuous experience compared to the heavier Sea Salt Smoothie. For users who enjoy a more substantial feel, the Gateron switch may be the preferred option. Overall, individuals leaning towards lighter switches will favor the Dareu Master, while those seeking a stronger push will gravitate towards the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch features a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Master switch offers a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more immediate tactile experience. On the other hand, the Sea Salt Smoothie, with its longer travel distance, could be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial keystroke and a deeper pressing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Master catering to those who favor speed and responsiveness, and the Sea Salt Smoothie appealing to individuals who prefer a fuller sense of depth in their 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 Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Salt Smoothie for $2.70.
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 switch is characterized by its clacky sound signature, producing sharp and snappy sounds upon actuation. This sharpness comes from a bright and percussive quality that can enhance the auditory experience of typing. In contrast, while the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie also features a medium-weight profile, it delivers a thocky sound, which typically provides a deeper, softer resonance compared to the Master. While both switches offer a distinct auditory experience, the choice between clackiness and thockiness largely depends on personal preference, as both can be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap material.
In the realm of feel, the Dareu Master switch is described as mild and polished. This means it provides an approachable typing experience, striking a balance that caters to a wide range of users. Its polished finish, likely due to meticulous production processes, results in an exceptionally smooth key travel with reduced friction, creating a seamless typing encounter. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie is not provided, leaving a gap in understanding its tactile characteristics. However, given that both switches are made from all-POM materials and have similar medium weight, it's likely that the Sea Salt Smoothie will also provide a smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Master and Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie linear switches offer unique sound experiences and a smooth operation, albeit with different auditory signatures. The Master offers a clacky sound profile along with a feel that is mild and polished, ensuring a refined typing experience. While the Sea Salt Smoothie has a thocky sound that appeals to users who might prefer a softer auditory cue, its tactile feel remains unclear. Users can expect a generally smooth performance from both switches, but their preferences for sound characteristics will ultimately guide their choice between these two appealing options.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Sea Salt Smoothie depends largely on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a classic clacky sound profile and prefer a polished, mild typing experience, the Master switch might be the right fit for you, especially if you appreciate a smooth operation that offers a touch of auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you are after an affordable yet high-quality option that delivers a thocky sound while maintaining a comfortable and smooth typing experience, you may want to lean towards the Sea Salt Smoothie. Ultimately, consider whether the auditory cues of a clacky switch or the deep resonance of a thocky switch aligns better with your preferences, as well as the type of activities you engage in, whether it be gaming, typing, or a mix of both. Each switch brings its distinct character to the table, so take the time to test them out if possible, and choose the one that feels right for you.
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