Dareu Master vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch to the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are some distinct differences to consider. The Master switch from Dareu is renowned for its medium weight and classic clacky sound signature, offering exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is known for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, housed in attractive pink and clear casings. While both switches offer a polished feel, the Master switch is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Clacky', while the Strawberry switch is noted for being 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', and 'Buttery'. You may be drawn to the Master switch for its medium weight and classic sound, or the Strawberry switch for its smooth actuation and reliability. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 KTT Strawberry differ in their housing materials, with the Master featuring a POM top and bottom housing while the Strawberry utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The POM housing of the Master creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing of the Strawberry produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of POM in the Master results in a unique sound experience, whereas the polycarbonate in the Strawberry offers a more clear and resonant sound profile.
Both the Dareu Master and the KTT Strawberry benefit from the unique qualities of their respective housing materials. The POM housing of the Master creates a distinctive sound profile that is deeper and more muted, while the polycarbonate housing of the Strawberry produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Strawberry's housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the switch. Despite their differences, both housing materials contribute to a satisfying typing experience, with each offering its own set of characteristics that cater to different preferences.
In terms of functionality, the housing material of a switch plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of key presses. The bottom housing is responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. The POM housing of the Dareu Master and the polycarbonate housing of the KTT Strawberry each bring their own unique qualities to the typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in creating a satisfying mechanical keyboard switch. While the housing materials of these two switches may differ, both ultimately contribute to a premium typing experience that caters to a variety of preferences.
Weight
Comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it is evident that the Master is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Strawberry's 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Strawberry switch is heavier at 62 grams, while the Master's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dareu Master for a smoother typing experience, especially for extended periods of use. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a heavier feel to their typing may opt for the KTT Strawberry for a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference for keypress responsiveness and comfort during typing or gaming sessions.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the KTT Strawberry linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The 0.6 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can make a significant impact on the feel of the typing experience. The shorter travel distance of the Master switch may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Strawberry switch may be favored by those who appreciate a more substantial keypress. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 offers a classic clacky sound that is sharp and snappy when pressed, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch produces a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Depending on your preference, the Master switch would be ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional and distinct typing sound, while the Strawberry switch would suit individuals looking for a quieter and deeper-toned typing experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a gentle and smooth operation with reduced friction and sleek key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch provides a frictionless and silky feel, delivering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with buttery key presses. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing feel in their own unique ways, catering to users who value smoothness and ease of operation during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Dareu Master linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch each offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Master switch excels in providing a classic clacky sound and a mild, polished typing feel, while the Strawberry switch delivers a low-pitched sound and a frictionless, silky typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer excellent options for keyboard enthusiasts seeking different qualities in their mechanical switches. Ultimately, choosing between the two would come down to whether you prefer a more traditional sound and medium weight typing experience with the Master switch, or a quieter, bass-heavy sound and buttery-smooth typing feel with the Strawberry switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium weight and a classic clacky sound, the Dareu Master linear switch would be a great choice for you. This switch offers exceptional smoothness in operation and a mild typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a lower-pitched sound, a frictionless and silky feel, and an attractive pink and clear housing, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is the way to go. These switches provide a smooth and fluid typing experience with minimal resistance, making them a reliable and comfortable option for your mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, your decision between the Dareu Master and KTT Strawberry linear switches will depend on your preferences for weight, sound, and feel in a keyboard switch.
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