Dareu Dream vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and KTT Laurel both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream stands out for its light linear option and attractive price point, making it an ideal choice for enthusiasts looking for a balance of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel is favored for its medium-light linear switch with a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design that provides a mix of responsiveness and comfort. Additionally, the KTT Laurel's subtly low-pitched sound profile adds to its appeal. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and KTT Laurel both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Dream's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Laurel's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, both switches share a POM bottom housing, which means they will both have a deep and pleasing sound profile on the bottom-out. However, the Dream's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound than the POM, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Laurel's deeper sound profile.
In terms of aesthetics, the Dareu Dream's polycarbonate top housing is translucent and ideal for RGB lighting, while the KTT Laurel's POM top housing offers a more opaque look. The differences in housing materials also affect the feel of the switches when typing. The Dream's nylon bottom housing gives a fuller and deeper sound profile with each keypress, while the Laurel's POM bottom housing contributes to its unique sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches offer a tactile feel that complements their respective sound profiles, providing a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Dream and KTT Laurel ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. The Dream's polycarbonate top housing delivers a sharper sound with RGB lighting capabilities, while the Laurel's POM top housing offers a deeper and more muted sound. The differences in bottom housing materials also contribute to the overall typing experience, with the Dream's nylon bottom housing absorbing more sound for a duller sound profile compared to the Laurel's deeper sound profile. Whether you prefer a crisper sound or a deeper tone, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the KTT Laurel linear switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dareu Dream's force is unknown while the KTT Laurel requires a light bottom out force of 50 grams. The Dream offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Laurel provides a slightly stronger push feel, offering a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch, we can see that the Dream has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Laurel has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dream being on the longer side and the Laurel being on the shorter side. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the Laurel with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may lean towards the Dream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
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 KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 switch offers a clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel switch provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Dream switch is known for being easy-to-press and mild, offering gentle resistance during key presses with a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. This switch provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive typing experience that feels lively. While both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing experience, they differ in their specific feel during use.
Considering all available information, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dream switch is characterized by a clacky sound and an easy-to-press, mild feel, making it a great choice for those who prefer a light linear option. On the other hand, the Laurel switch stands out with its low-pitched sound and snappy feel, striking a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Dream linear switch or the KTT Laurel linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities. If you are looking for a very light linear switch at an affordable price point, the Dareu Dream switch is an excellent option. It offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience with a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel switch is the way to go. It provides a snappy feel with a low-pitched sound profile, making it a great choice for those seeking a more dynamic typing experience. Consider your desired typing feel, sound preference, and budget when making your decision between these two switches.
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