Dareu Dream vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Dareu Dream and the TTC Flame Red, both of which are linear switches. The Dareu Dream switches are well-loved for their light and easy-to-press feel, along with their affordability, making them a top choice for enthusiasts looking for a balance of quality and cost-effectiveness. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red switches are renowned for their stunning light diffuser, making them ideal for those who prioritize visual aesthetics, especially on backlit RGB keyboards. Typing on Flame Reds offers a weighty smoothness and a clacky sound profile that adds a touch of sophistication to the 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
54g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the TTC Flame Red, both switches have nylon bottom housings, which means that typing on them will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. However, the Dream features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Flame Red utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in top housing material leads to a variation in sound quality between the two switches.
The use of polycarbonate in the Dream's top housing allows for a more resonant sound profile when pressing down on the keys, while the Flame Red's nylon top housing absorbs more sound and creates a fuller sound experience. On the other hand, both switches share the quality of a deeper and fuller sound profile when it comes to typing on the nylon bottom housings. The Dream's top housing, being polycarbonate, provides a more clear and resonant sound profile compared to the Flame Red's nylon top housing, which offers a duller sound experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the Dareu Dream's polycarbonate top housing is translucent and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while the TTC Flame Red's nylon top housing is a classic switch housing material known for its deeper sound profile. Despite their differences in top housing materials, both switches offer a unique sound experience due to the combination of their nylon bottom housings. Ultimately, the choice between the Dream and the Flame Red will come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic appeal.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Flame Red requires 45 grams to actuate. The bottom out force for the Dream is unknown, whereas the Flame Red has a bottom out force of 54 grams, making it a medium-light switch. The lighter actuation force of the Dream may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use, such as for work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Flame Red's slightly heavier actuation force may provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing experience desired.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results with both switches. Additionally, since the travel distance is equal for both switches, there is no difference in the length of travel between the Dareu Dream and TTC Flame Red linear switches.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 and sharp sound profile, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the TTC Flame Red linear switch produces a more neutral sound, with a moderate profile suitable for various typing preferences and environments. Both switches can offer satisfying sound experiences depending on personal preferences and the keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue for comfortable typing sessions. Additionally, its mild characteristics provide a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. In comparison, the TTC Flame Red switch also provides a mild typing experience but adds a polished finish for smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches offer a pleasant and approachable typing feel, catering to different preferences.
Taking into account the sound and feel qualities of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, it is evident that both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. While the Dream switch leans towards a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Flame Red switch offers a neutral sound profile and a polished finish for smooth key travel. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and additional features such as visual aesthetics. However, regardless of the choice, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, consider your priorities and preferences. If you value a very light linear option with a budget-friendly price point, the Dareu Dream switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a visually striking switch with a medium-light bottom out force and smooth, clacky sound profile, the TTC Flame Red switch is the way to go, especially if you have a backlit RGB keyboard. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to your specific needs and desires for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
