Gateron Beer vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and the Dareu Dream, some key differences stand out. The Gateron Beer is a tactile switch that evokes the sparkling allure of a Tsingtao beer bottle with its mesmerizing translucent green appearance. This switch is known for its refreshingly lightweight feel and stepped tactility, offering a subtle tactile feedback compared to the continuous curve of other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream is a linear switch that boasts a very light actuation force and an attractive price point, making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking both quality and affordability. While the Beer switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped', the Dream switch falls under the categories of 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', and 'Mild'. Each switch offers unique benefits, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics will help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Beer and the Dareu Dream feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Dareu Dream's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials results in varied typing experiences between the two switches.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing of the Gateron Beer results in a more consistent sound profile and typing experience compared to the Dareu Dream. The stiffness of polycarbonate in the Beer's bottom housing further enhances the sharp and crisp sound, while the translucency remains aesthetically pleasing for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Dream's combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing splits the qualities of each housing material between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting the sound profile when pressing down and letting go of a key differently.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in switches such as the Gateron Beer and the Dareu Dream can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing for a sharper sound profile and aesthetic appeal with RGB lighting, the differing bottom housing materials, polycarbonate for the Beer and nylon for the Dream, result in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. Understanding the qualities of each housing material is essential for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is clear that the Beer is the lighter option in terms of actuation and bottom out force. The Beer requires 38 grams to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter and more gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream has an actuation force of 40 grams, though the bottom out force is unknown. This suggests that the Dream may have a slightly heavier feel compared to the Beer. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Beer would be the preferred choice, allowing for longer typing sessions with less strain. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Dream, as it provides a slightly heavier actuation force. Overall, the choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is evident that the Beer has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm compared to the Dream's 4 mm. The Beer's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Dream's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate typing experience. Both switches offer unique advantages depending on personal preference; the Beer for quick and snappy key presses, and the Dream for a more deliberate and measured typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing style and preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch are described as having a clacky sound signature. This means that when pressed, they produce a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. The overall sound of a switch is also affected by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press with a stepped tactility. This means that they offer gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. The light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The stepped tactility provides a subtler feel compared to switches with a continuous curve, offering a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch is also easy-to-press but is described as having a mild feel. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, providing a safe, middle-ground zone of sound and feel that is approachable to most users.
Overall, both the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Beer switch provides a unique typing experience with its stepped tactility and clacky sound signature, while the Dream switch offers a light and comfortable typing feel with a mild sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to achieve similar results in terms of typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider the key factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a unique tactile feel and a clacky sound, the Gateron Beer may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a light linear feel and a similar clacky sound, the Dareu Dream switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and how each switch aligns with your desired typing experience.
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