Dareu Dream vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Dream and the PH Studio Jacaranda are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, but they each offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream is praised for its lightness and affordability, making it a popular choice amongst enthusiasts looking for quality without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda, with its gentle bottom-out weight and extended spring, provides a satisfyingly bouncy typing experience and a crisp, clacky sound feedback. While both switches offer a linear typing experience, the Dream leans towards the easy-to-press side, while the Jacaranda boasts a more distinct and resonant feel. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the PH Studio Jacaranda both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This material is known for its clarity and resonance, making it a popular choice for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. The use of polycarbonate in both switches ensures a consistent sound profile and aesthetic look, making them suitable for users who value both audio feedback and visual customization.
On the other hand, the Dream and the Jacaranda differ in their choice of bottom housing material, with the Dream featuring a nylon bottom housing while the Jacaranda also opts for nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softness that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Due to these properties, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings can produce a duller and rounder sound, providing a different tactile experience for users. While both switches share the nylon bottom housing material, the specific design and construction of each housing may impact the overall sound and feel of the switches differently.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Dareu Dream and the PH Studio Jacaranda showcases a balance between clarity, resonance, and tactile feedback. The differences in housing materials between the two switches offer users a choice in sound profile and tactile feel based on personal preferences. Whether one prefers a crisper sound with a stiffer polycarbonate top housing or a deeper sound with a softer nylon bottom housing, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing experiences. Ultimately, the selection of housing materials in each switch contributes to the overall typing experience and allows users to customize their setup based on their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that the Dream requires 1 gram more force at 40 grams compared to the Jacaranda's 39 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Dream is unknown, while the Jacaranda has a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it the heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jacaranda may be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. However, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the Dream may be the better choice despite the unknown bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, making it a more traditional option. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5mm. Gamers may prefer the Jacaranda for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing a key may opt for the Dream with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize responsiveness or depth in your typing experience.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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, both the Dareu Dream and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches fall under the category of "clacky," delivering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This characteristic is ideal for those who enjoy a crisp and bright auditory feedback during typing sessions. Although the Jacaranda offers additional descriptors like "high-pitched" and "resonant," ultimately, users can expect a similar sound profile from both switches, especially when considering factors like the keyboard platform and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Dream is known for being easy-to-press and offering a mild typing experience. These qualities cater to users looking for minimal resistance and a comfortable typing feel, ultimately reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. In comparison, the PH Studio Jacaranda stands out with its silky smoothness, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance when pressing and releasing keys. While the Dream focuses on ease of use and a mild feel, the Jacaranda excels in delivering a luxurious typing sensation with its silky smooth operation.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Dream and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Dream provides a light and affordable linear option with an easy-to-press feel, the Jacaranda shines with its distinct characteristics like a bouncy sensation and silky smooth operation. Whether you prioritize affordability and mild feel or a premium typing experience with luxurious smoothness, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience that aligns with your preferences. Ultimately, with either switch, users can expect a quality linear switch option for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, consider your priorities. If you are looking for a light linear switch with an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth typing experience with a unique bouncy sensation and a crisp, clacky sound profile, the PH Studio Jacaranda might be the better option. Both switches offer their own set of characteristics, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style when making your decision.
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