Gateron Type S vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Gateron Type S and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
We're delighted to introduce the Gateron Type S, a linear switch, and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch, both offering unique features for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Gateron Type S, part of Sillyworks' "Project Rehash," provides a weightier keystroke experience with a 65g bottom-out and a pleasingly balanced sound signature. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offers a medium tactility and light touch, making it a perfect Goldilocks option for those seeking a balanced typing feel. While the Type S is more subdued and neutral, the Violet Gold Pro is slightly stepped and neutral. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Type S and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature nylon bottom housing materials. This means that when typing on both switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. The nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when the keys are pressed. This similarity in housing material suggests that users of both switches will experience comparable typing experiences in terms of sound and feel.
However, the key point of differentiation between the two switches lies in their top housing materials. The Type S boasts a nylon top housing, which enhances the typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it a preferred choice for users who enjoy a more precise sound output. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing of the Violet Gold Pro allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the typing experience.
In summary, while both the Gateron Type S and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro share a common nylon bottom housing material that results in a similar typing sound and feel, they diverge in their top housing materials. The Type S's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound quality and aesthetics, users can choose between the two switches to tailor their typing experience to their liking.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Type S is heavier in both aspects. The Type S has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The Type S would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile response. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a lighter actuation force, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and force required for key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, we can see that the Type S has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Violet Gold Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Type S being slightly longer than the Violet Gold Pro. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Violet Gold Pro for faster response times, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Type S. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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
The Gateron Type S linear switch is known for its neutral and subdued sound profile, offering a deeper acoustic experience that is not overly noisy. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound signature, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing environments. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement, catering to users of different experience levels and preferences. While the Type S excels in delivering a weightier keystroke with its 65g bottom-out, the Violet Gold Pro provides a medium tactility with a light touch, offering a balanced typing experience. The Type S may appeal more to those who prefer a deeper sound experience, while the Violet Gold Pro is ideal for users seeking a more subtle sound profile. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and versatility in different aspects, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of sound and feel based on their individual preferences and typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Type S linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you in a keyboard switch. If you prefer a weightier keystroke with a medium-heavy bottom-out force and a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience, the Gateron Type S may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a balanced typing experience with a light tactility, a fairly light touch, and a neutral sound signature, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro could be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force.
Mentioned in this article
