Outemu Crystal vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Crystal and the Dareu Dream both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Crystal is highly regarded for its elastic feel and medium-light weight, providing a distinctive linear typing experience. With a neutral sound profile, it is a great choice for those who appreciate a polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream stands out for its very light linear option and affordable price point, making it an attractive choice for enthusiasts looking for quality at a lower cost. 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
55g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Crystal and Dareu Dream both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This makes them ideal for switches with RGB lighting as the translucency of polycarbonate allows light to shine through. However, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the Dareu Dream stands out with its nylon bottom housing. The nylon material of the Dream provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing, which creates a clear and resonant sound. This difference in bottom housing material gives each switch a unique typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound profile, the distinction between the Outemu Crystal and Dareu Dream lies in their bottom housing material. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a clear and resonant sound, while the Dream's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. When typing on the Crystal, one can expect a sharper and crisper sound, while typing on the Dream will result in a more rounded and duller sound. This difference in sound quality showcases how the choice of housing material can greatly impact the overall typing experience and preference of individuals.
Overall, while both the Outemu Crystal and Dareu Dream share a polycarbonate top housing, their differences in bottom housing material significantly affect the sound profile and feel of the switch. The Crystal's clear and resonant sound is a result of its polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Dream's deeper and fuller sound is attributed to its nylon bottom housing. Additionally, the impact of each housing material on the typing experience differs between the two switches, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, individuals may prefer one switch over the other based on their sound preferences and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Crystal linear switch to the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is evident that the Crystal has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Dream's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Crystal is 55 grams, while the Dream's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the Crystal switch slightly heavier overall compared to the Dream, which has an unknown bottom out force. The Crystal switch provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Dream's experience is unavailable for comparison. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Dream for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the slightly heavier Crystal switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance means that users can expect consistent typing experiences whether using the Crystal or the Dream switches. In terms of travel distance, there is no significant difference between the two switches, allowing for comfort and familiarity regardless of which one is chosen for use.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 Outemu Crystal linear switch is known for its unique chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, giving it a distinct acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch is described as producing a clacky sound, which is crisp, bright, and percussive. Depending on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard, both switches offer different auditory experiences that cater to different tastes.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is characterized as having a polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In comparison, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring little force to activate. The light actuation force of the Dream switch makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Crystal switch leans towards a more polished and refined feel, while the Dream switch focuses on providing a comfortable and easy typing experience.
Overall, enthusiasts seeking a unique linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile may prefer the Outemu Crystal linear switch for its elastic feel and medium-light weight. On the other hand, those looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a light actuation force and easy key presses may lean towards the Dareu Dream linear switch. While the sound and feel of these switches differ, both options provide quality and performance that can enhance the overall typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world. Ultimately, choosing between the Outemu Crystal and Dareu Dream switches will depend on individual preference for sound, feel, and budget considerations.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you value a unique, medium-light typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Crystal switches may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a very light linear option at an affordable price point, the Dareu Dream switches could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and budget to enhance your overall typing experience.
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