Dareu Master vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Yanyu both offer unique features that cater to different needs and preferences. The Dareu Master is equipped with The Master switch, a linear switch made of all-POM material, providing a medium weight feel for users. Known for its classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness during operation, this switch falls under the categories of 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is designed for those seeking a delicate typing experience or for prolonged typing sessions. With a material blend that delivers a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch is characterized by being 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its strengths and appeal, but deciding on the best switch for you requires a deeper dive beyond generalities.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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 Yanyu both offer unique housing materials for their switches. The Master features POM top and bottom housings, creating a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its top and bottom housings, resulting in a pleasant and slightly brighter sound. While both switches offer pleasing sound profiles, the different materials used in their housings lead to distinct auditory experiences.
The housing materials of the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Yanyu also impact the feel of the switches. The POM bottom housing of the Master contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. On the other hand, the Yanyu's unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE is split between the top and bottom housings, resulting in a blend of qualities that impact the overall typing experience. Each switch offers a different tactile feedback based on the materials used in their housing construction.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Yanyu aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience with their unique sound profiles. While the Master's POM housings create a deeper and more muted sound, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend offers a slightly brighter tone. Ultimately, the housing materials of these switches play a significant role in shaping the overall typing feel and sound, contributing to their individual characteristics and appeal to typing enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Master linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that the Master has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Yanyu, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Yanyu has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Master's bottom out force is unavailable. The weight of the switches plays a significant role in the typing experience, with lighter switches being more conducive for extended typing sessions and gaming, while heavier switches provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it slightly shorter than the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of responsiveness, gamers may prefer the Master switch due to its shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Yanyu switch with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the travel distance, but ultimately provide similar results in terms of functionality.
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 Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu 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
The Dareu Master linear switch is known for its classic clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a more delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when activated. Both switches have a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Yanyu switch also has feathery and subtle characteristics, providing a light typing feel that reduces finger fatigue. Overall, both switches deliver smooth operation and pleasant typing experiences, with the choice between them ultimately coming down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel. If you enjoy the characteristics mentioned, you can expect similar results from both switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Master linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force switch for a delicate typing experience or extended typing sessions, the SP-Star Yanyu switch with its crisp sound profile may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Consider your typing style and needs to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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