Dareu Master vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, there are several key factors to consider. The Dareu Master switch offers a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a medium weight typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch provides a quieter typing experience with a cushion-like bottom-out feel, ideal for environments where noise is a concern. Both switches are categorized as 'Polished', but the Master is described as 'Clacky' and 'Mild', while the Silent Ink Black is labeled as 'Silky' and 'Muted'. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and needs. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Gateron Silent Ink Black offer distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. The Master's POM top and bottom housings create a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and more muted, providing a smooth typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top and bottom housings deliver a pointed and high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, offering a more tactile feel. While both switches provide satisfying typing experiences, the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Despite their differences, the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Gateron Silent Ink Black both contribute to an overall enhanced typing experience. The POM housings of the Master emphasize a smoother, deeper sound profile that may be preferred by those who enjoy a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the INK blend housings of the Silent Ink Black offer a sharper, clacky sound profile that is more tactile and satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feel. Both switches excel in their own unique ways, catering to different preferences in typing sound and feel.
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, it is important to consider how each component affects the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, impacting the overall tactile feedback when typing. In contrast, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key, contributing to the overall sound profile of the switch. By understanding how the housing materials of each switch interact with the key press, individuals can make an informed decision based on their preferences for sound and tactile feedback while typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Ink Black is the heavier option. The Master has an actuation force of 45 grams, whereas the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams. The bottom out force of the Master is unknown, while the Silent Ink Black has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Master switch, as the actuation force is lower. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may find the Silent Ink Black more suitable due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, it is clear that the Master has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Silent Ink Black's 4 mm. The Master's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quick response times, while the Silent Ink Black's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences and can cater to different user needs, so it is important to consider what type of typing or gaming experience you prefer before making a decision.
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 Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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 is best described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offers a muted sound, perfect for quieter environments where noise is a concern. Depending on your preference for sound, the Master switch will provide a more traditional mechanical keyboard sound, while the Silent Ink Black switch will offer a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master switch provides a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish that enhances the typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch offers a silky feel that is exceptionally smooth, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Like the Master switch, the Silent Ink Black is also polished, ensuring a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky and traditional mechanical keyboard sound with medium weight, the Master switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a muted sound and a pillow-like bottom-out feel with minimal audio feedback, the Silent Ink Black switch is the better choice. Ultimately, both switches provide smoothness in operation, so you can expect a high-quality typing experience regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, consider the specific qualities and preferences that suit your typing style and environment. If you prioritize a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Master switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if a quieter typing experience with a pillow-like bottom-out feel is important to you, then the Silent Ink Black switch is the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a medium weight switch with classic characteristics or a silenced switch that offers a quieter and smoother typing experience. Both switches have their unique strengths, so choose the one that aligns best with your personal preferences and needs.
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