Dareu Dream vs. TTC Ice
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the TTC Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Dream and TTC Ice offer two appealing linear options, each with its distinct advantages. The Dareu Dream is known for its lightweight design, providing an easy-to-press feel that makes it a fantastic choice for users who value a responsive typing experience at an affordable price. Its clacky and mild sound profile suits both casual typing and gaming enthusiasts alike, making it a popular pick in the budget-friendly segment. On the other hand, the TTC Ice switches stand out with their crystal-clear transparent design, combining aesthetics with functionality. They provide a smooth and responsive feel while delivering a satisfying bottom-out sound, offering a premium experience that caters well to gamers and daily typists. While both switches present their unique benefits, understanding their specific characteristics is crucial in making an informed choice. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
24mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and TTC Ice switches both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top housings, leading to significant similarities in their sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing is characterized by a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, primarily due to the material's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. This is particularly advantageous for users who prioritize RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for optimal light diffusion and aesthetic appeal. As a result, users of both switches can expect a similar auditory experience when pressing keys, with the clarity of sound influenced largely by the polycarbonate's unique properties.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a marked contrast between the two switches. The Dareu Dream features a nylon bottom housing, which is traditionally known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer qualities contribute to a richer auditory experience by absorbing more sound and resulting in a rounder sound signature. In contrast, the TTC Ice utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which retains the characteristics of a sharper sound. This structural difference means that while the top housings contribute to the overall brightness and clarity of sound, the Dareu Dream's nylon bottom provides a grounding effect, absorbing higher frequencies and delivering a more rounded typing experience.
Ultimately, the interaction between the top and bottom housings of these switches dictates their overall acoustic performance. In the case of the Dareu Dream, the combination of a polycarbonate top with a nylon bottom results in a blend of crispness from the upper section and warmth from the lower section, creating a well-rounded sound profile. On the other hand, the TTC Ice, with its polycarbonate top and bottom, maintains a consistent sharpness throughout the keystroke experience. For users who appreciate light effects and a more focused sound profile, both switches deliver commendable results, though the Dareu Dream will appeal more to those seeking a fuller auditory sensation.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dareu Dream features a lower actuation force of 40 grams, making it the lighter option; this could lead to less fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the TTC Ice requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, which may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a stronger push. However, the bottom out force for the Dareu Dream is unknown, while the TTC Ice has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that, while the Dareu Dream may feel lighter overall to press, the TTC Ice's defined bottom out could contribute to a more pronounced tactile experience. Overall, if you're interested in a less strenuous typing experience, the Dareu Dream would be preferable, whereas the TTC Ice may appeal to those who enjoy a firmer keystroke.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, there's a noticeable difference. The Dareu Dream boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional switch distance, offering a more pronounced keypress that many users appreciate for its depth and tactile feedback. In contrast, the TTC Ice has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, appealing to those who prefer quicker response times, particularly in gaming scenarios where speed is crucial. For those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience with a hearty feel, the Dareu Dream would be the better choice. Conversely, the TTC Ice is ideal for users looking for a faster, more responsive keypress. Ultimately, while both switches provide unique advantages based on their travel distances, the Dareu Dream is the longer option, and the TTC Ice is the shorter, making them suitable for different user preferences.
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 Ice has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice for $5.99.
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 it comes to sound, the Dareu Dream switches produce a clacky noise, characterized by a crisp and percussive quality that can enhance the typing experience for users who appreciate auditory feedback. This sharp, bright sound can make typing feel more engaging and satisfying, especially if you enjoy the auditory aspect of using a mechanical keyboard. In contrast, the TTC Ice switch has not had its sound qualities detailed, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the acoustic signature of any switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard case and keycap materials, so both switches might yield different sound profiles depending on these factors.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream switches shine with their easy-to-press design, requiring minimal force to activate, which is beneficial for long typing sessions. The mild resistance and low actuation force provide a comfortable experience that minimizes finger fatigue, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize a light and responsive typing experience. Unfortunately, specific details about the feel of the TTC Ice switches are not available, preventing a direct comparison; however, a smooth and responsive nature has been mentioned, suggesting a potentially pleasant typing experience as well.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switches stand out for their light touch and clacky sound, appealing to those who enjoy a lively typing feel and auditory feedback. The Ice switches by TTC, while lacking in specific descriptions regarding sound and feel, are designed to offer a premium typing experience. If you are looking to make a choice, leaning towards the Dareu Dream might provide a more defined auditory and tactile experience, but both switches could ultimately satisfy similar overall performance due to their linear nature.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TTC Ice linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and intended use. If you're someone who values a very light keypress for effortless typing, appreciates a clacky sound for an engaging auditory experience, and is looking for a budget-friendly option, the Dareu Dream switches are an excellent choice. Their easy-to-press feel and mild feedback make them especially suitable for long typing sessions, allowing you to work or game without the strain of heavy keystrokes. Conversely, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force and desire a premium typing experience with a satisfying sound profile, the TTC Ice switches would be more in line with your needs. Their crystal-clear design not only looks impressive but also offers a smooth and responsive feel that complements both gaming and everyday tasks effectively. Ultimately, consider how much resistance you want during your key presses and what kind of auditory feedback you enjoy when making your decision.
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