Dareu Dream vs. HMX EMO
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the HMX EMO switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Dream, a linear switch, is well-known for its light and easy-to-press feel, along with its attractive price point, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking for quality and affordability. On the other hand, the HMX EMO, also a linear switch, offers a lively and clacky typing experience with a feather-light 46g bottom-out force, providing a bouncy and satisfying feel. Both switches have their strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the HMX EMO both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it perfect for switches designed to have RGB lighting. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housings, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics.
On the other hand, the Dream and the EMO differ when it comes to their bottom housings. The Dream utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the EMO also features a nylon bottom housing, providing users with a consistent typing experience that emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to users looking for specific sound profiles.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the combination of different housing materials in the Dream and the EMO allows users to feel the qualities of each material with every keystroke. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials ensures that users can enjoy a well-rounded typing experience that includes both the sharp, crisp sound of polycarbonate and the deep, fuller sound of nylon. Whether it's the Dream or the EMO, both switches offer a comprehensive typing experience with a focus on sound quality and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX EMO linear switch have the same actuation force of 40 grams, meaning that users can expect a consistent typing experience when it comes to triggering keystrokes. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a difference. The Dareu Dream switch does not have a specified bottom out force available, while the HMX EMO switch has a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a lighter option. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter force can be more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier force can provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the HMX EMO switch, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may opt for the Dareu Dream switch for a potentially heavier feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX EMO linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Dream's travel distance is slightly longer than the EMO's, with a more traditional feel compared to the shallower 3.5 mm of the EMO. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter 3.5 mm travel distance of the EMO, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the 4 mm travel distance of the Dream. Both switches offer different experiences due to their slight difference in travel distance, catering to different preferences in keyboard feel.
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 HMX EMO has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EMO for $2.79.
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 Dareu Dream linear switch offers a clacky typing experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This type of sound is characterized by its crisp, bright, and percussive qualities. On the other hand, the HMX EMO linear switch's sound profile is not specified. Both switches can provide a satisfying sound experience, but the specific sound produced will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is noted for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses with minimal force required to activate. This results in a typing experience that is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the switch provides a mild typing experience, falling in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Conversely, the specific feel of the HMX EMO linear switch is not detailed. Overall, both switches offer a smooth and pleasant typing experience, but the tactile feel will vary depending on personal preference and typing style.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Dream and HMX EMO linear switches may differ in sound and feel based on the provided information, they both offer quality linear options for keyboard enthusiasts. The Dream stands out for its light linear option at an attractive price point, while the EMO excels in delivering a lively and bouncy typing experience with its 46g bottom-out force. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound, feel, and budget constraints to achieve a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Dream linear switch or the HMX EMO linear switch, you should opt for the Dream if you are looking for a very light linear option that offers quality and affordability. The Dream's light bottom out force and easy-to-press feel make it a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a smooth typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a livelier, clacky feel with a slightly heavier bottom-out force, the HMX EMO switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the EMO's factory-lubed design delivers a bouncy typing experience that is both satisfying and smooth. Consider your preferences for bottom out force, typing feel, and sound when deciding between these two switches.
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