HMX Cheese vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the HMX Cheese and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Cheese and Dareu Dream both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The HMX Cheese is renowned for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, accompanied by a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature. These ultra-light switches stand out for being lighter than 90% of all switches, providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switches offer a very light linear option at an attractive price point, making them an excellent choice for enthusiasts looking for quality and affordability. 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
43g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
46g
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
Ly
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
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The HMX Cheese and Dareu Dream both utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. However, the Cheese features a nylon top housing, while the Dream uses a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dream results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. This difference in top housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the use of materials in the top housing of the HMX Cheese and Dareu Dream also differs. The Cheese's nylon top housing may not offer the same level of clarity and translucency as the Dream's polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is especially useful in top housings if RGB lighting is a consideration, as its translucency allows for vibrant lighting effects to shine through. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Cheese may offer a more subdued and classic appearance without the same level of visual impact as a clear polycarbonate housing.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate in the top and bottom housings of the HMX Cheese and Dareu Dream can greatly impact the sound profile and aesthetics of the switches. While both nylon and polycarbonate offer distinct advantages in terms of sound quality, the differences in material properties can lead to contrasting typing experiences. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound with a duller tone (nylon) or a sharper, crisper sound with more clarity (polycarbonate), the choice of housing material can play a significant role in the overall performance and user experience of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is evident that the Cheese switch is slightly lighter in both aspects. The Cheese switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 46 grams, while the Dream switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. In terms of weight, the Cheese switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or long gaming sessions. The Dream switch, on the other hand, may appeal to those who prefer a slightly stronger push for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, while the actuation force may vary slightly between the two switches, both can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The HMX Cheese linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cheese has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dream. The 3.5 mm travel distance of the Cheese falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Dream provides a bit more depth when pressing the key. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a shorter, more responsive feel or a longer, more substantial press. Both switches offer slightly different tactile experiences, but either one can provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience depending on your personal preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $2.99.
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 HMX Cheese linear switch is known for its satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature, creating a unique typing experience that stands out among other switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch is described as producing a clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy, adding a crisp and bright element to each key press. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the accompanying keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Cheese linear switch is praised for its unparalleled smoothness and pristine typing experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing feel. In contrast, the Dareu Dream linear switch is characterized as easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. Additionally, the Dream switch is described as mild, offering a more approachable typing experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide different tactile experiences that cater to varying preferences in typing comfort and responsiveness.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cheese switch provides a distinctive clacky and smooth typing experience, the Dream switch offers a light and easy-to-press feel at an attractive price point. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, typing feel, and budget constraints. However, both switches offer high-quality options that can elevate the typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the HMX Cheese linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the HMX Cheese switch if you prioritize a light bottom out force, smoothness, and a satisfying clacky sound signature. These switches are perfect for those who prefer an ultra-light typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Dareu Dream switch if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers a light linear feel. With an easy-to-press sensation and a mild typing experience, the Dream switches offer a great balance between quality and affordability. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your specific preferences for typing style, sound, and overall typing experience.
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