Dareu Master vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Dareu Master switch is praised for its medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness. This makes it a great option for those who prefer a linear feel with a bit of feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. This makes it ideal for those who enjoy a softer feel with a touch of feedback. 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
58g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the SP-Star Duck both offer unique housing materials for their switches, with the Master featuring POM top and bottom housings while the Duck utilizes polycarbonate for both. The POM housing in the Master creates a deeper, more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate in the Duck produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Master provides a pleasing and unique sound experience, while polycarbonate in the Duck offers a more clear and resonant sound profile. Both materials have their own aesthetic appeal, with POM being more opaque and polycarbonate being translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
While the housing materials of the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Duck have different characteristics, they both contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The split between the top and bottom housings in a switch can affect how the qualities of each material are experienced when typing. The bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the POM top and bottom housings in the Master will complement each other, creating a consistent sound experience throughout typing. Similarly, the polycarbonate top and bottom housings in the Duck will work together to provide a cohesive sound profile.
Overall, the choice between POM and polycarbonate housing materials in switches like the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Duck ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both materials offer unique sound profiles and aesthetics that can enhance the typing experience. The deeper, more muted sound of POM may appeal to those who prefer a softer typing experience, while the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate may be favored by those who enjoy a more tactile feel. Regardless of the material chosen, each housing contributes to the overall feel and sound of the switch, making it a key factor to consider when selecting a mechanical keyboard.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Duck tactile switch is 58 grams, making it heavier than the Master switch with an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Master switch, as it requires less force to actuate the keys. On the other hand, the Duck switch may be more appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Dareu Master has a shorter travel distance compared to the Duck switch. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dareu Master, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Duck switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing or gaming experience 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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 known for its clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various scenarios without being too loud or too soft. Depending on your preference, the Master switch will give you a classic clacky sound, while the Duck switch will provide a clean and crispy typing experience.
Moving on to feel, both the Master and Duck switches offer a mild typing experience, catering to users looking for a gentler feel compared to more pronounced switches. The Master switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience, potentially due to factory lubing. Similarly, the Duck switch is also described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience for effortless typing. If you prefer a polished and refined typing feel, both switches offer a similar quality in terms of smoothness and ease of key travel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Master linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch each have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Master switch leans towards a clacky sound profile and a polished typing experience, while the Duck switch offers a more neutral sound and a buttery typing sensation. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide a smooth and enjoyable typing experience, catering to a range of users from beginners to advanced mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky sound and smooth operation, the Dareu Master switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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