HMX Deep Navy vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX Deep Navy and the Dareu Dream linear switches represent two distinct offerings catering to different user preferences. The Deep Navy switches stand out with their robust nylon construction and a rich, sharp sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience and smooth keystrokes thanks to the Ly stem. This makes them an excellent choice for users who prioritize build quality and a more pronounced feedback with their typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switches are celebrated for their lightweight actuation and affordability, appealing to enthusiasts who seek effective performance without breaking the bank. With their easy-to-press nature, these switches offer a clacky and mild sound profile that some users may find more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions. While both options cater to linear switch fans, they each have unique qualities that may influence your decision. 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
40g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Deep Navy and the Dareu Dream, a clear distinction can be made between the materials used for the top housing. The Deep Navy utilizes nylon, a classic choice in switch housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is largely because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs sound more effectively than its harder counterparts. Consequently, users can expect a rounder and more subdued auditory experience when typing on these switches. In contrast, the Dareu Dream employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that enhances the clarity of sound. The sharper and crisper sound profile produced by polycarbonate results in a more resonant auditory feedback, making it more suitable for gamers or typists who prefer a more pronounced tactile response.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which yields a similar acoustic experience in that area. The properties of nylon remain consistent, leading to the deeper and fuller sound effects that come from this material. Since both models feature nylon at the bottom, users will find that the bottom-out sound and feel across these switches share a common quality, irrespective of the distinct characteristics provided by their respective top housings. Consequently, while the Dream enhances its top sound profile through the use of polycarbonate, the lower portion remains congruent, delivering a consistent auditory experience.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the HMX Deep Navy and Dareu Dream reflect how diverse configurations can impact user experience. While the Deep Navy is designed for a richer, more enveloping sound through its nylon top, the Dareu Dream aims for clarity and sharpness with polycarbonate. However, since both models share the same nylon bottom housing, they align on the properties that dictate bottom-out sensations, resulting in similar effects in that aspect. Thus, while each switch offers its unique auditory signature, the blend of top and bottom housing materials in both models creates an appealing balance for users with varying preferences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch to the Dareu Dream linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 40 grams, meaning users will experience a similar keystroke engagement in terms of trigger resistance. However, the bottom out force of the Deep Navy is 45 grams, which adds an additional level of resistance when fully pressing the key. The Dareu Dream, on the other hand, has an unknown bottom out force, leaving ambiguity regarding how it might feel when the key is fully depressed. In terms of weight, the Deep Navy switch can be characterized as lighter due to its clearly defined forces, making it potentially more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Dareu Dream's bottom out characteristics remain uncertain, so users seeking a heavier push feel might need to consider the identifiable force of the Deep Navy switch to get an optimal typing experience. Overall, if one values lighter switches for prolonged use, the Deep Navy would be the favored option, while the Dream's appeal might hinge on undisclosed metrics.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Dream features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This makes the Deep Navy the shorter travel distance option, ideal for those who favor quicker response times, commonly desired by gamers. In contrast, the Dream's travel distance offers a more traditional feel, catering to users who appreciate a deeper key press for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences: opt for the Deep Navy for responsiveness or the Dream for a more hearty depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy switch is characterized by its rich and sharp acoustic feedback, which provides a distinctly satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. This comes from its full nylon construction, contributing to a more robust and resonant sound when compared to typical linear switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch has a clacky sound, which is described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Though these two switches differ in sound signatures, the overall acoustics are also influenced by factors such as the keyboard frame and keycap material, so users may still find complementary sound qualities when using either switch.
In terms of feel, the Deep Navy switch is known for its silky smoothness, offering a seamless and fluid typing experience that makes every keypress feel satisfying. This smoothness benefits typists looking for a linear switch that minimizes friction. Conversely, the Dareu Dream switches are described as easy-to-press, allowing for gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate each key, thus promoting comfort during long typing sessions. They provide a mild experience, making them approachable for users who prefer a more subdued response. While both switches cater to different preferences, they emphasize ease of use and comfort, albeit in slightly different ways.
In summary, the HMX Deep Navy linear switch excels in producing a rich sound and silky feel, while the Dareu Dream switches are affordable and provide a light and accessible typing experience with a clacky sound. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on your specific preferences in sound and feel, but either way, you can expect a satisfactory typing experience as they share common qualities in comfort and response.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Deep Navy and Dareu Dream linear switches, the decision primarily hinges on your personal preferences regarding sound and typing feel. If you desire a tactile experience coupled with a rich, sharp sound, the Deep Navy is the way to go. Its 45-gram bottom-out force provides just the right amount of resistance for those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke feedback. The silky smoothness of the Ly stem enhances the fluidity of typing, making it suitable for both gaming and long writing sessions. On the other hand, if you're seeking an ultra-light switch that's easy to press, the Dareu Dream emerges as an attractive option. With its clacky sound profile and mild resistance, it’s perfect for those who prioritize comfort and ease of use, especially during extended typing marathons or gaming sessions. Ultimately, if you're an enthusiast on a budget looking for quality and affordability without sacrificing performance, the Dareu Dream linear switch would be an excellent choice. In essence, your final decision should be guided by whether you value deeper acoustic feedback and a more substantial typing experience or the lightweight, effortless feel of the Dareu Dream.
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