Dareu Dream vs. Durock Light Tactile
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Durock Light Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile switch, enthusiasts are presented with two compelling options. The Dareu Dream switch stands out for its light linear feel and affordable price point, making it a top choice for those seeking a balance of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a gentle tactility that provides a unique typing experience, with a softer tactile bump and a softer sound signature. 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
52g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the Durock Light Tactile both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. Despite their similarities in top housing material, the Dream and the Light Tactile may offer different typing experiences due to other factors such as the bottom housing material.
The Dream utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Light Tactile also features a nylon bottom housing, allowing for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. With both switches utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience when it comes to sound profile and feedback.
While both switches share similarities in their housing materials, the way these materials affect the typing experience can vary based on their placement in the switch. The bottom housing is more impactful on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile and typing feel of the switch, users can choose the one that best suits their preferences and needs. Whether it's the Dream or the Light Tactile, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Durock Light Tactile switch which has a heavier actuation force of 52 grams. The Dream switch does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Light Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods may lean towards the Dream switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Light Tactile switch. Both switches provide different typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, offering a range of options for users to choose from depending on their preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that users can expect similar keypress experiences in terms of the amount of travel required to actuate the switch. The 4mm travel distance for both switches ensures a consistent typing feel, making it easier for users to transition between the two switches without much adjustment needed. Overall, both the Dareu Dream and the Durock Light Tactile offer a standard travel distance, providing a familiar typing experience for users.
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 Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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 typing experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The Dream switch will give you a more pronounced and percussive sound, while the Light Tactile switch offers a milder and more subtle typing noise. Keep in mind that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by the keyboard setup and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch offer a mild typing experience. The Dream switch provides an easy-to-press feel with minimal force required for actuation, making typing effortless and comfortable. The Light Tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a gentle tactility that is more polished and refined, resulting in a smooth key travel experience. Both switches fall into the category of mild switches, providing a middle-ground typing feel that is approachable to a wide range of users.
Overall, if you are deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their respective qualities, making them suitable choices for those looking for a budget-friendly option with good performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch, you should consider your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a light linear switch with no bottom out force and a clacky sound, the Dareu Dream switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with 67 grams bottom out force, a neutral sound profile, and a polished feel, then the Durock Light Tactile switch would be a better fit for your typing needs. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an optimized typing experience.
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