SP-Star Ayara vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and Dareu Dream stand out as popular linear options. The Ayara offers a medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switches are known for their light linear feel and attractive price point, making them a top choice for enthusiasts seeking quality and affordability. Choosing between these two switches depends on personal preferences and needs. 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Dareu Dream, we can see a clear distinction in the sound profiles they produce. The Ayara's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a duller and rounder tone due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Dream's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, crisper sound with higher pitches, thanks to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. The difference in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, with the Ayara providing a more muted and softer typing experience compared to the Dream's sharper and more resonant sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Ayara and the Dream feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to their top housings. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for both switches. While the top housing material may have a greater impact on the sound when pressing and releasing a key, the bottom housing will still contribute significantly to the overall sound profile of the switches. Despite having different top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the SP-Star Ayara and the Dareu Dream plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience for users. While the Ayara's nylon housing offers a softer and rounder sound, the Dream's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper tone. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, maintaining a consistent deep and full sound profile. Whether one prefers a more muted typing experience or a sharper sound with higher pitches, the housing materials of these switches cater to different preferences and styles of typing.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Dream has an actuation force of 40 grams. This means that the Ayara is heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, the actuation force of the Dream is lighter, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly and effortlessly. Both switches offer unique advantages; the Ayara is better suited for those who prefer a heavier typing experience, while the Dream is ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In cases where both actuation and bottom out forces are the same or unknown, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and overall performance.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on keys equipped with either of these switches will result in a consistent and similar tactile experience. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of key travel and feedback when typing on keyboards that utilize either switch. Therefore, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the SP-Star Ayara and the Dareu Dream linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara for $5.40.
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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The sound produced is described as high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the more neutral and high-pitched sound of the Ayara or the clacky sound of the Dream.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This switch offers reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. In contrast, the Dareu Dream linear switch is easy-to-press with gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. The light actuation force of the Dream switch makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Dream switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone.
Considering the information provided, users looking for a linear switch with a hearty typing experience and a clacky sound profile may prefer the SP-Star Ayara switch. On the other hand, those seeking a light and easy-to-press linear switch with an affordable price point may opt for the Dareu Dream switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, and users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star Ayara linear switch or the Dareu Dream linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences and budget. If you prefer a medium heftness with a hearty typing experience and a polished feel, then the Ayara switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a light linear switch with a clacky sound profile and an easy-to-press feel at an affordable price point, then the Dareu Dream switch may be the better option. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so consider what aspects are most important to you when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and Dream switches will depend on what you value most in your typing experience.
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