Dareu Dream vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch to the Gateron EverFree Grayish tactile switch, it becomes evident that both options have their unique advantages. The Dareu Dream stands out for its light linear feel and budget-friendly price, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize affordability without compromising quality. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree Grayish switch offers a tactile experience with a medium weight and neutral sound signature, making it a solid default option for those looking for a balanced typing experience. 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
59g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Dream's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the EverFree (EF) Grayish's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches.
In terms of quality, the differences in bottom housing material between the Dareu Dream and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish affect the overall typing experience. With the Dream's nylon bottom housing, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile, highlighting the impact of the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the EverFree (EF) Grayish's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, impacting the typing experience in a unique way. This shows how variations in housing materials can influence not only the sound profile but also the tactile feedback when using these switches.
Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both the Dareu Dream and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish share the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. This results in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, making it an ideal material for switches with clear housings. Whether you choose the Dream or the EverFree (EF) Grayish, you can expect a consistent sound experience due to their shared top housing material.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that the Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the EverFree Grayish's 59 grams. This means that users may find typing on the Dream to be easier and more responsive. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches have an unknown measurement. This leaves a question mark on how much force is needed to fully press down on the keys. When considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dream for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the EverFree Grayish for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dareu Dream switch. The Dream's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a deeper keypress feel, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the EverFree Grayish's shorter 3.4 mm travel distance may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer different experiences due to their varying travel distances, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and response time.
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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, making for an audible and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound signature, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Dream being more crisp and bright, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish provides a more versatile and neutral sound.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is praised for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate, providing a light actuation force that enhances typing comfort and reduces fatigue. Additionally, the mild typing experience of the switch makes it approachable to users looking for a comfortable and responsive feel. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch features a stepped feel, offering a two-stage tactile bump that provides a unique typing experience. The switch is also described as snappy, offering a super responsive feel that adds liveliness to typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct tactile feedback that caters to different typing preferences, with the Dream providing a light and effortless feel, while the EverFree (EF) Grayish offers a more pronounced tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that appeal to different preferences and typing styles. While the Dream excels in providing a clacky sound profile and an easy-to-press typing experience, the EverFree (EF) Grayish stands out with its neutral sound signature and stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, as both switches offer quality performance at their respective price points. Regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a satisfying and reliable typing experience that meets your specific needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, consider your priorities. If you value a light linear option with an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream switches are a great choice for a quality and affordable option. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and custom molds, the EF Grayish switches from Gateron EverFree might be the ideal default tactile option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize light linear switches or medium weight tactile switches, as well as your budget and typing preferences.
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