Dareu Master vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Master and the Durock T1 are two popular mechanical keyboard switches that offer different typing experiences. The Master, a linear switch, is loved for its medium weight and classic clacky sound signature, making it a smooth and satisfying option for users. On the other hand, the T1, a tactile switch, provides a comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Master is praised for its smoothness and sound, the T1 offers a more tactile typing experience. 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
67g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the Durock T1 both offer unique housing materials that play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switch. The Master features a POM top housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the T1 boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This contrast in sound characteristics can greatly influence the typing experience for users, with the POM housing providing a more subdued feel while the polycarbonate housing delivers a more distinct sound with each keystroke. Despite their differences, both housing materials offer their own advantages and cater to different preferences in terms of sound.
In terms of bottom housing, the Dareu Master utilizes a POM material which also yields a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Durock T1 features a nylon bottom housing that creates a fuller and rounder sound. The use of nylon as a bottom housing material absorbs more sound compared to the harder POM material, resulting in a softer and more rounded sound profile when typing on the T1 switches. This difference in bottom housing materials contributes to the overall acoustics of the switches, offering users a variety of sound options depending on their preferences.
When examining how the top and bottom housings impact the typing experience, it becomes evident that each housing material plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. While the Dareu Master and the Durock T1 offer contrasting housing materials for both the top and bottom, they ultimately provide users with a range of sound profiles to choose from, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound experiences, with the choice of housing material playing a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Durock T1 tactile switch has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the T1 is heavier with 67 grams compared to the Master's unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Master switch would be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, the T1 switch would be better for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different options for users depending on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that the Master has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the T1 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Master offers a more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quicker response times. On the other hand, the T1 provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance, suited for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 offers a classic clacky sound signature, giving off a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch produces a low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches have their unique sound profiles, catering to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's personal taste and keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped and accented feel, providing a medium bump when pressed down with a prominent amount of tactility. Both switches aim to deliver a comfortable typing experience, but the choice between them will come down to whether the user prefers a gentler approach or a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Overall, the Dareu Master linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel, catering to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Master switch is ideal for those seeking a classic clacky sound and a polished typing experience, while the T1 switch is perfect for individuals looking for a low-pitched sound and a stepped, accented tactile feel. Ultimately, both switches are excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, and choosing between them will depend on the user's personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a smooth and clacky linear switch with a medium weight and no tactile bump, the Master switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on the window, the T1 switch might be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or bottom out force, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. Choose wisely based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying to you as you type away on your keyboard.
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