KTT Miaowu vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch are both popular options worth considering. The Miaowu offers a smooth keystroke action with enhanced stem stability, thanks to its innovative use of POK material in the stem. Known for being 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', the Miaowu switch provides a unique typing experience for those who prefer linear switches. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches by Dareu boast a medium level of tactility with a light touch, making them a great option for those looking for a balanced typing experience. Categorized as 'Stepped' and 'Neutral', the Violet Gold Pro switches have a neutral sound signature, appealing to users seeking a versatile tactile switch. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Miaowu and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while they share the same material for the top housing, the Miaowu uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
In terms of sound profile, both the Miaowu and the Violet Gold Pro will offer similar results due to their shared polycarbonate top housings. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate will enhance the sharpness, pitch, and clarity of the sound produced by both switches. However, where they differ is in their bottom housings. The Miaowu's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing will have a similar effect. This means that while they may have slight variations in sound, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience with unique qualities attributed to their housing materials.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Miaowu and the Violet Gold Pro will impact the sound and feel of the switches differently. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a varied sound profile depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. The bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will impact the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in these switches creates a balanced typing experience with a mix of sharpness, depth, and resonance in the sound produced.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Miaowu is lighter in both aspects. The Miaowu has a lower actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Violet Gold Pro's 45 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Miaowu is 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Miaowu may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the slightly heavier actuation force of the Violet Gold Pro. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being ideal for extended use and heavier switches providing a more pronounced keypress feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro has a longer travel distance compared to the KTT Miaowu. While both switches fall within the range preferred by gamers for faster response times, the Miaowu offers a slightly shorter travel distance which may appeal to those looking for a more responsive feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
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 Miaowu switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. Depending on your preference, the Miaowu switch may provide a more distinctive and attention-grabbing typing experience, while the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a more understated and balanced sound. Ultimately, the sound produced by either switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Miaowu switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback that gives keys a lively, rebounding sensation when pressed. In contrast, the Violet Gold Pro switch is described as stepped, offering a tactile experience with two distinct stages during the keystroke. This difference in feel may appeal to different typing preferences, with the Miaowu switch offering a more dynamic and responsive keypress, while the Violet Gold Pro switch provides a tactile feedback that is more subtle and nuanced.
In conclusion, the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Miaowu switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and bouncy feel, providing a unique typing experience with its sharp sound and spring-like feedback. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switch offers a more neutral sound signature and stepped tactile feel, making it a versatile option suited for a balanced typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches can cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light linear switch with enhanced stem stability and a smoother keystroke action, the KTT Miaowu would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch might be the better option. Consider your typing preferences and whether you prioritize smooth keystrokes or a balanced typing experience when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
