Dareu Dream vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, enthusiasts are presented with two distinct options to consider. The Dareu Dream switches offer a light linear experience with an attractive price point, making them a popular choice for those seeking quality and affordability in their mechanical keyboards. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi switches boast a tactile design that enhances the typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, along with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. While the Dream switch is easy-to-press and clacky, the Kiwi switch is stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
In terms of housing materials, the Dareu Dream utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the TKC Kiwi features a UHWMPE top housing, offering a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. Both materials enhance the sound of the switches, but in different ways. While polycarbonate provides a higher-pitched sound, UHWMPE delivers a brighter and louder typing experience. Overall, both materials aim to improve the sound quality of the switches, catering to different preferences for sound profiles.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Dream incorporates a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks, similar to its top housing. Despite the different materials used, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing unique sound profiles. The nylon and UHWMPE materials each bring their own qualities to the switches, ensuring a distinct sound and feel with each press.
While the Dareu Dream and TKC Kiwi feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the focus remains on enhancing the typing experience through sound quality. The split between the top and bottom housing allows for a more nuanced sound profile, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience with unique sound signatures, catering to individual preferences for sound profiles. Ultimately, the choice between polycarbonate and UHWMPE housing materials boils down to personal preference for sound characteristics when typing.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the TKC Kiwi tactile switch with 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Kiwi at 67 grams is heavier than that of the Dream which is unknown. This means that while both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of actuation force, the Kiwi will provide a more substantial feel when fully pressing down on the keys. This could be beneficial for users who prefer a stronger push feel for typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. As a result, both switches will provide a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. Whether you prefer a linear or tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance with both the Dareu Dream and TKC Kiwi 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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 sound profile that is sharp and snappy when pressed, producing a crisp and bright tone. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various typing preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is characterized as easy-to-press with minimal force required for key presses, offering a gentle typing experience that is low-impact and responsive. The switch is also described as mild, providing a comfortable typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users. In contrast, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch features a stepped tactile feel with two stages of feedback, offering a medium tactile experience that is not overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the switch is accented and polished, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction for an enhanced typing experience.
Overall, for those seeking a light linear switch with an affordable price point, the Dareu Dream switch would be a suitable choice, especially for users who prefer a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is ideal for individuals looking for a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump, a low-pitched sound profile, and a stepped tactile feel that is accented and polished for a refined typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so selecting between the two would depend on the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, you should consider your preference for switch characteristics. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a light linear feel and easy-to-press keys, the Dareu Dream switch might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium-strong bump, stepped feel, and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, then the TKC Kiwi switch would be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize affordability or tactile feedback in your mechanical keyboard experience.
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