KTT Ash Gray vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Ash Gray and the Dareu Dream offer distinct experiences for users. The Ash Gray, a tactile switch, is designed to provide a tactile response that is both substantial and unobtrusive, offering a light touch with a crisp actuation. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream, a linear switch, presents a very light linear option with an attractive price point, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking for quality and affordability. The Ash Gray is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Mild', 'Neutral', while the Dream is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', 'Mild'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different types of users. 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
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and Dareu Dream both feature polycarbonate top housings, which enhance the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile of the switches. The use of polycarbonate in the housings contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for those who value auditory feedback while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing aspect to the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Ash Gray and Dream utilize nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to individuals seeking a more muted typing experience. This combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both switches offers a balanced sound profile with a mix of sharpness and depth.
While the KTT Ash Gray and Dareu Dream share similar housing materials in their polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings, the overall typing experience may vary slightly due to the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a unique blend of sharpness and depth in the sound produced by each switch, catering to a range of preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The KTT Ash Gray tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Dareu Dream linear switch's actuation force of 40 grams, making the Ash Gray slightly easier to trigger. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires a heavier force of 53 grams, while the Dream's bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Ash Gray provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individuals who have specific preferences when it comes to the weight of their key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, the Ash Gray has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dream has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Ash Gray offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dream. A 3.5 mm travel distance provides a quicker response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster reactions. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Dream may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are popular in the market today, providing similar results in terms of efficiency and functionality despite the slight variance in distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key depth and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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
In terms of sound, the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch produces a clacky sound when pressed, providing a sharper and more distinct auditory experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the KTT Ash Gray and Dareu Dream switches are described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing comfortable and effortless, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, both switches are categorized as mild, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, users can expect a responsive and low-impact typing feel from both switches.
In conclusion, while the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch may have some differences in sound, they offer similar qualities in terms of feel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience with light actuation force and gentle resistance, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a switch with a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, offering a light touch with a crisp actuation, the Ash Gray would be a great choice. This switch is designed to provide a balanced tactile feedback without being overwhelming. On the other hand, if you are looking for a very light linear option at an attractive price point, the Dream switch would be more suitable. It offers a smooth and light keystroke experience, making it a top choice for those seeking quality and affordability. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile feedback and your budget constraints.
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