Dareu Master vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master and the Gazzew U4T offer unique qualities to consider. The Master switch from Dareu is a linear switch known for its medium weight, classic clacky sound signature, and exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T is a tactile switch that combines thockiness with sharp tactility, providing a bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback. If you value a smooth and clacky typing experience, the Master switch may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile switch that offers both auditory and tactile satisfaction with every keystroke, the Gazzew U4T could be the better option. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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 Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Master and the Gazzew U4T both offer unique and pleasing sound profiles due to their housing materials. The Dareu Master features POM top and bottom housings, creating a deep and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housing, often referred to as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. While both switches aim to provide a pleasing sound experience, the materials used in their housings result in slightly different sound characteristics.
Despite the differences in their housing materials, both the Dareu Master and the Gazzew U4T offer a deep sound profile. The POM housings of the Dareu Master and the proprietary Gazzew blend top and bottom housings of the Gazzew U4T both contribute to a rich and full sound when typing. However, the Dareu Master may provide a slightly more muted sound compared to the Gazzew U4T due to the specific properties of POM material. Overall, users of both switches can expect a satisfying auditory experience while typing.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on typing feel, the differences between the Dareu Master and the Gazzew U4T become more apparent. The bottom housing material plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel, so the POM bottom housing of the Dareu Master and the Gazzew blend bottom housing of the Gazzew U4T will influence the typing experience in unique ways. On the other hand, the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key, showcasing how each switch offers a distinct typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch reveals some significant differences. The Dareu Master has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Gazzew U4T's actuation force is unknown. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Gazzew U4T is heavier at 65 grams compared to the Dareu Master, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Dareu Master may provide a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, whereas the Gazzew U4T offers a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the lighter actuation force of the Dareu Master potentially appealing to some users, while the heavier bottom out force of the Gazzew U4T may be preferred by those looking for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Gazzew U4T tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Master has a shorter travel distance compared to the U4T. The Master's 3.4 mm travel distance makes it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times, while the U4T's 4 mm travel distance may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress depth. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distance, so the choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a clacky and sharp sound that provides a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch boasts a bassy thock sound profile that delivers a deep and rich tone, combined with a pronounced tactile feedback for a truly immersive typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can enjoy a personalized auditory experience based on their individual preferences.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Master switch is characterized by a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle yet refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes it an excellent option for users who prefer a comfortable and approachable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch provides a sharp tactile feedback with a strong and crisp bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress. This intense tactile feedback offers a satisfying tactile experience for users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response while typing.
Overall, while the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches excel in providing a high-quality typing experience tailored to users' preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky linear switch with smooth operation or a bassy tactile switch with strong feedback, both options guarantee a premium typing experience that will enhance your overall keyboarding enjoyment. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Master and Gazzew U4T switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, with both options delivering impressive performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, consider your preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prioritize a smooth and clacky typing experience with no bottom-out force, the Master switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bassy and thocky sound profile with a sharp tactile feedback and a bottom-out force of 65 grams, the U4T switch would better suit your needs. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and the particular sound and feel you prefer in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely and enjoy your typing experience!
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