Dareu Dream vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Dream and TTC Gold Brown Pro offer distinct options to cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream is a linear switch known for its lightness and affordability, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts looking for a smooth keystroke experience. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro is a tactile switch that provides subtle tactile feedback and a quiet typing experience, ideal for those who value a more nuanced and immersive typing experience. While the Dream appeals to those who prefer a clacky feel, the Gold Brown Pro offers a polished and thocky 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the TTC Gold Brown Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to polycarbonate's stiffness, it leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. As a result, both switches offer a similar sound and aesthetic experience when it comes to their top housings.
On the other hand, the Dream and the Gold Brown Pro differ in their bottom housing materials. The Dream utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. Similarly, the Gold Brown Pro also features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a similar typing experience as the Dream with a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Overall, the differences between the Dream and the Gold Brown Pro lie in their bottom housing materials while the similarities can be seen in their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Dream providing a crisper and sharper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Gold Brown Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Dream switch may appeal to those who prefer typing for longer periods without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation force of the Gold Brown Pro switch may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Gold Brown Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Dareu Dream switch. The 0.2 mm might not seem like a significant difference, but it can impact the overall feel and response of the switch. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Gold Brown Pro with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming may opt for the Dareu Dream switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy noise with each press. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offers a thocky, low-pitched sound that is deep and rich, perfect for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience while typing. The neutral sound profile of the Gold Brown Pro makes it a versatile option suitable for various environments. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a low-impact typing experience. It is also described as mild, providing a comfortable typing feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is known for its polished and silky typing experience, offering smooth key travel and reduced friction. Additionally, its stepped design provides a subtle tactility that is gentle on the fingers. Both switches excel in providing a pleasant typing experience, with the Dream being more effortless and the Gold Brown Pro offering a refined feel.
In conclusion, while both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is ideal for those seeking a light linear option with a clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is perfect for individuals who appreciate a nuanced tactile feedback with a thocky, low-pitched sound and a polished, silky feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. If you are looking for similar results in terms of feel and sound, both switches offer a mild typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and performance.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a light linear switch at an affordable price point, the Dareu Dream switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback with a low sound profile to help you stay focused, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what feels best for you in terms of sound and feel. Happy typing!