Gateron CJ vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Dream mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The CJ is celebrated for its higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, giving it a distinct typing experience categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Thocky'. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream is known for its light linear feel and budget-friendly price point, appealing to those looking for an 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', and 'Mild' switch. 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
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Dream, we can see that the CJ utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing while the Dream features a polycarbonate top housing. The INK blend by Gateron offers a thin and higher-pitched sound profile, described as clacky, while polycarbonate creates a sharper and more resonant sound due to its stiffness. Both materials provide satisfying sound profiles, but the CJ's INK blend may be preferred for those seeking a slightly less sharp sound compared to the Dream's polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the CJ's POM bottom housing creates a deep and muted sound profile, while the Dream's nylon bottom housing elicits a fuller and rounder sound. POM is known for its pleasing sound characteristics, whereas nylon absorbs more sound and produces a duller tone. Both materials offer unique qualities to enhance the typing experience, with POM providing a deeper sound and nylon offering a fuller sound to the switch.
When considering how the top and bottom housings interact with the typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of each material will influence different aspects of the sound profile. The bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials between the Gateron CJ and the Dareu Dream, both switches provide unique and satisfying sound profiles for users to enjoy.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, there are significant differences to consider. The CJ has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. This means that the CJ requires a slightly heavier touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Dream. The CJ offers a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, while the Dream allows for a lighter touch, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for the weight of the keys.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing them to other switches with varying travel distances, these two switches offer a consistent typing experience with the same amount of travel distance. This means that whether you choose the CJ or the Dream, you can expect similar results in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed down. This makes them both reliable options for those who prefer a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CJ has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CJ for $5.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron CJ linear switch is known for its chirpy and low-pitched characteristics, providing a unique acoustic experience with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience based on personal preferences and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron CJ switch is noted for its mild and smooth push feel, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone suitable for most users. In comparison, the Dareu Dream switch is highlighted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and responsive typing feel, with the CJ switch leaning towards a more gentle approach and the Dream switch focusing on effortless key presses.
Overall, the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the CJ switch offers a smooth push feel and higher-pitched clacks, the Dream switch provides a light and easy-to-press typing experience at an affordable price point. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing dynamics, both switches can deliver satisfying results, ensuring an enjoyable and personalized mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers exploring the world of switches.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron CJ linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and enjoy the unique higher-pitched clacks and smooth push feel, the Gateron CJ may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter option without a defined bottom out force and appreciate a light, clacky sound profile along with an easy-to-press typing experience, the Dareu Dream switch could be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, it comes down to what feels best for you and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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