Dareu Dream vs. TTC Light Cloud V2
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the TTC Light Cloud V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the Dareu Dream and the TTC Light Cloud V2, both linear switches with distinct qualities. The Dareu Dream is known for being a very light linear switch that is both easy to press and offers a clacky feel at an attractive price point, making it a great choice for enthusiasts looking for a balance of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 is praised for its silent operation and refined typing feel, with a lightweight construction that provides a delicate and nuanced typing experience. While the Dream emphasizes affordability and ease of use, the Light Cloud V2 focuses on a silent and subtle typing experience. 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Gold-plated double-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the TTC Light Cloud V2, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties. However, the top housing materials differ, with the Dream featuring a polycarbonate top housing and the Light Cloud V2 sporting a nylon top housing. The Dream's polycarbonate top housing leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast showcases how different materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
When it comes to the construction of the Dareu Dream and TTC Light Cloud V2, the choice of housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced by each switch. The Dream's polycarbonate top housing offers a more translucent design, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing provides a classic look and feel, contributing to a deeper sound profile. Additionally, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a fuller sound profile when typing. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to provide a pleasant typing experience, with the housing materials playing a key role in the overall sound and feel of each switch.
In terms of functionality, the use of different housing materials for the Dareu Dream and TTC Light Cloud V2 results in varying sound profiles and typing experiences. While the Dream's polycarbonate top housing creates a clearer and more resonant sound, the Light Cloud V2's nylon top housing offers a deeper and rounder sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housings in both switches contribute to a fuller sound when typing. Overall, the choice of housing materials in each switch impacts the overall typing experience, with the Dream emphasizing a sharper sound profile and the Light Cloud V2 providing a deeper tone. Despite these differences, both switches are designed to enhance the user's typing experience through the use of high-quality housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, it is evident that there are some differences between the two. The Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Light Cloud V2 requires 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Dream is unknown, whereas the Light Cloud V2 has a bottom out force of 58 grams. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Dream switch due to its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, which some users may find more satisfying. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Dream offers a slightly longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Light Cloud V2 provides a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dream being slightly longer than the Light Cloud V2. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Light Cloud V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Cloud V2 for $5.49.
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 is characterized by a clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy, giving it a crisp and percussive quality when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch is known for its muted sound profile, offering a softer and quieter typing experience. Additionally, the Light Cloud V2 also has a neutral sound option available, which provides a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for various purposes. The sound produced by both switches can be further influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When considering the feel of these switches, both the Dareu Dream and TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switches are described as providing a gentle typing experience. The Dream offers an easy-to-press feel, requiring minimal force to activate the keys, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue. The Light Cloud V2 also offers this easy-to-press sensation, coupled with a mild and approachable typing experience. Moreover, the Light Cloud V2 features a feathery feel, characterized by an exceptionally light key press that reduces finger strain and promotes comfort during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch stands out for its affordability and light linear option, making it an attractive choice for enthusiasts seeking quality switches. On the other hand, the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch excels in providing a refined typing feel with its silent and lightweight nature. While the Dream switch offers a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Light Cloud V2 provides a muted sound and a feathery key press experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the TTC Light Cloud V2 linear switch, consider your priorities. If you value affordability and a light linear feel with easy-to-press keys, the Dareu Dream may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a silent switch with a slightly higher actuation force and a refined typing experience, the TTC Light Cloud V2 could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and budget. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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