Kailh Box Royal vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Royal and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Box Royal with the Dareu Dream mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that they have distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Box Royal is renowned for its sharp and binary tactility, providing an almost aggressive tactile feedback for those who enjoy a highly responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream offers a light and easy-to-press linear option that is both clacky and mild, appealing to enthusiasts looking for quality at an affordable price. While the Box Royals excel in aggressive tactility and higher-pitched sound profile, the Dareu Dreams stand out for their smooth and light keypress with a moderate sound. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Royal and Dareu Dream differ in terms of their top housing materials, with the Box Royal featuring a nylon top housing and the Dream using a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Box Royal creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dream produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer composition. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dream allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding a visual appeal to the switch.
In contrast, both the Box Royal and Dareu Dream utilize nylon bottom housing materials, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to their top housings. This consistency in bottom housing material results in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound profile when typing on switches made with this material. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience from both switches when it comes to their bottom housing material.
Overall, the differences in top housing materials between the Kailh Box Royal and Dareu Dream lead to distinct sound profiles during typing. The nylon top housing of the Box Royal creates a deeper and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Dream produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, the consistent use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches means that users can expect a similar feel and sound when pressing down on the switches. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound profile and aesthetic considerations such as RGB lighting compatibility.
Weight
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dareu Dream linear switch which has an actuation force of 40 grams. However, the Box Royal also has a higher bottom out force of 70 grams while the bottom out force of the Dream switch is unknown. In terms of weight, the Dareu Dream linear switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, which may be preferred by those looking for a lighter typing experience. The Box Royal, on the other hand, provides a heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing feel. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, so users can choose based on their preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Box Royal has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dream. The slightly shorter travel distance of the Box Royal may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, especially for gamers who require fast key presses. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Dream may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of travel distance and the desired tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box Royal comes in at $6.25 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
In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch has a high-pitched profile, providing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch is described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound. If you prefer a higher-pitched, more distinct sound profile, the Box Royal may be the better option for you. However, the Dream switch provides a different, yet equally satisfying auditory experience with its bright and percussive sound.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. In contrast, the Dareu Dream switch is described as easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. The light actuation force of the Dream switch makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. If you enjoy a more intense and pronounced tactile feel, the Box Royal switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and smoother typing experience, the Dareu Dream switch may be more appealing.
Overall, the Kailh Box Royal switch offers a highly tactile and sharp typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy aggressive tactility. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch provides a light and easy-to-press linear option with a clacky sound, catering to users seeking quality switches at an affordable price point. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience, ensuring that you will get satisfying results regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch or the Dareu Dream linear switch, you should first consider your preference for tactility and sound profile. If you prefer a highly tactile switch with a sharp and aggressive feel, as well as a higher-pitched sound, then the Box Royal would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter linear option with a more affordable price point, along with a clacky and percussive sound, then the Dareu Dream switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and budget constraints.
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