Kailh Box White vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Kailh Box White switch is renowned for its clicky feedback, providing a satisfying "stepping on autumn leaves" sound and tactile sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream offers a smooth linear experience at a budget-friendly price point, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a light and easy-to-press switch. While the Box White excels in delivering audible and tactile feedback, the Dream focuses on providing a cost-effective option for those seeking a more subtle typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Dareu Dream, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches that prioritize clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. With both switches incorporating polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects when using these switches.
However, a key point of contrast between the two switches lies in their choice of bottom housing material. The Kailh Box White features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, showcasing a similar emphasis on creating a rounder and duller sound profile. While both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience through the use of nylon in their bottom housing, slight differences in manufacturing and design may lead to nuanced variations in sound and feel.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Kailh Box White and Dareu Dream switches offers users a well-rounded typing experience. The split between the qualities of each housing material - sharper sound from polycarbonate and fuller sound from nylon - ensures a balance between clarity and depth in the sound profile of these switches. Whether it's the impactful bottom-out sound from the nylon bottom housing or the distinctive sound when releasing a key from the polycarbonate top housing, both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is evident that the Box White has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Dream's lighter 40 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but the Box White's 60 grams is considered to be medium. The Box White is more suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the Dream is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches offer different tactile experiences for users based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky 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 White has the shorter travel distance compared to the Dream switch. The traditional travel distance for switches is considered to be around 4.0 mm, making the Dream switch fall into that category. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Box White with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial keypress and a deeper actuation may find the longer travel distance of the Dream switch more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
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 White comes in at $2.76 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 White clicky switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched sound profile, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience reminiscent of crunching autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch is described as producing a clacky and sharp sound when pressed, offering a crisp and bright sound quality. Both switches deliver distinct sound profiles, with the Box White offering a more immersive auditory feedback through its clicky mechanism, while the Dream provides a snappy and percussive sound.
Moving on to feel, the Kailh Box White switch is noted for its polished finish, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Dareu Dream linear switch is designed to be easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a light actuation force for effortless typing. The Dream switch also provides a mild typing experience that is comfortable and low-impact, enhancing the overall typing experience with its responsive feel.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch is ideal for those seeking maximum audio feedback with its crunchy sound profile and accented tactility, while the Dareu Dream linear switch stands out for its light linear option and attractive affordability. Depending on your preference for either clicky feedback or smooth linear actuation, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either the Box White or Dream switch, each providing their own set of subjective qualities to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you value a satisfying clicky sound with a medium bottom out force and enjoy the tactile feedback while typing, the Box White switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a gentle typing experience and a more affordable price point, the Dareu Dream switch might be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, preferences for sound and feel, and budget. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs, so choose the one that best fits your criteria.
Mentioned in this article
