Dareu Dream vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves choosing between options that offer unique experiences tailored to their typing preferences. The Dareu Dream switch is celebrated for its lightweight actuation and affordability, making it a popular choice for those seeking quality without breaking the bank. Its clacky and mild characteristics provide a satisfying feedback loop that appeals to gamers and typists alike. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus switch distinguishes itself with an ultra-light actuation force, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience accompanied by a bouncy and feathery feel. Its distinct poppy sound signature enhances the auditory experience while typing, making it a rare find for keyboard aficionados. Both switches cater to specific tastes—while the Dream is ideal for budget-conscious users wanting a reliable and responsive experience, the Hibiscus shines for those prioritizing smoothness and unique acoustic feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the HMX Hibiscus keyboards utilize contrasting materials for their top housings, which significantly influences the sound profile and overall typing experience of each switch. The Dareu Dream incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. This material's translucency also allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, making it visually striking as well as sonically appealing. In contrast, the HMX Hibiscus opts for a nylon top housing, which absorbs sounds more due to its softer nature. As a result, it produces a duller, rounder sound profile, giving a distinct auditory character that may be preferred by users who favor a more subdued typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both keyboards employ nylon, which plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall acoustic feedback when typing. The nylon bottom housing for both the Dareu Dream and the HMX Hibiscus generates a fuller and deeper sound profile, lending a cohesive acoustic characteristic that balances their respective top housings. The impact of this material is evident during the bottom-out phase of typing, where the softer nature of nylon helps to absorb sound, producing a smooth and less jarring experience, irrespective of the differing top materials.
When examining the combined effects of the top and bottom housings, it's clear that while the Dream and Hibiscus showcase diverging sound traits due to their top housing choices, they converge in the warmth and depth offered by the nylon bottoms. This means that while the Dareu Dream may excel in producing a bright, resonant sound due to its polycarbonate top, the bottom housing's nylon will still ensure a rounded feel upon key presses. Conversely, the Hibiscus's softer, more muted top will benefit from the same warm bottom housing, allowing it to maintain a balanced typographic experience. Thus, users can expect a distinctly different auditory experience from each keyboard while enjoying a familiar depth thanks to the shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, notable differences in actuation force and bottom out force can be observed. The Dream switch features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, which may appeal to users seeking a more effortless typing experience ideal for extended use, while the Hibiscus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams, providing a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push. However, the bottom out force of the Dream switch is unknown, whereas the Hibiscus switch has a defined bottom out force of 48 grams, which indicates how much resistance users will encounter when they press the key all the way down. As a result, the Hibiscus switch would be considered the heavier option overall, making it potentially more satisfying for those who enjoy a firmer keystroke. In summary, the Dream switch is lighter in actuation, while the Hibiscus brings a heavier bottom out feel, catering to different preferences in typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch exhibit different travel distances, with the Dream measuring 4 mm and the Hibiscus at 3.5 mm. This makes the Dareu Dream the longer switch, providing a more pronounced keypress feel, which some users may find preferable for a more substantial tactile experience. In contrast, the shorter travel distance of the Hibiscus at 3.5 mm is designed for quicker response times, catering to gamers and typists who favor faster actuation. While both switches offer unique advantages—depth and a more robust feel from the Dream, versus enhanced responsiveness from the Hibiscus—the difference in travel distance highlights a key consideration in choosing between them based on personal preference.
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 Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the Dareu Dream and HMX Hibiscus linear switches, both are characterized by a clacky sound signature. This means that they produce a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, described as crisp, bright, and percussive. It's important to note that the acoustic experience can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and choice of keycaps. However, if you're looking for an engaging auditory feedback during your typing experience, both switches deliver a similarly enticing sound that caters to those who appreciate a lively click without the tactile bump.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream switches offer an easy-to-press experience with gentle resistance, allowing for effortless key presses that minimize finger fatigue during extended use. Their mild nature means that they provide a balanced typing experience, appealing to a wide array of users. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus switches bring a bouncy, spring-like feedback that gives a lively rebound when keys are pressed. Additionally, their feathery touch makes them exceptionally light, reducing strain on the fingers as well. While the Dream focuses on comfort and accessibility, Hibiscus offers a more spirited typing sensation, making them both unique yet comfortably usable.
In conclusion, if you're considering the Dareu Dream and HMX Hibiscus linear switches, both present excellent options depending on your preferences. The Dream excels in providing a light, effortless experience that suits those seeking value without sacrificing comfort, while the Hibiscus offers a playful, bouncy feel that enhances tactile enjoyment. Their similar clacky sound profiles ensure that regardless of the switch you choose, you will be treated to an energizing auditory feedback that complements your typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch ultimately hinges on your specific preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize a switch that is exceptionally light, approachable, and affordable, the Dareu Dream is an excellent option. It minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for long typing sessions while delivering a clacky sound that adds a layer of auditory feedback. This switch would be particularly appealing if you're a newcomer to mechanical keyboards or someone who enjoys a comfortable, effortless typing experience without the need for significant force. On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch that offers not only a smooth typing experience but also a bouncy and feathery feel with a satisfying sound signature, the HMX Hibiscus stands out. With its unique characteristics, including a light actuation force and an engaging clacky sound, this switch will resonate with those who appreciate an elevated tactile experience, whether for gaming or intensive work tasks. Therefore, consider your typing style and desired auditory feedback when making your decision, as each switch offers distinct advantages that suit different preferences.
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