Dareu Dream vs. Outemu Lime
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Lime switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and Outemu Lime offer distinct experiences catered to different preferences. The Dareu Dream is a linear switch known for its light touch and affordability, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for quality on a budget. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime is a tactile switch that provides a unique combination of lightweight feel, subtle tactility, and silence, appealing to those who enjoy a gentle typing experience. While the Dream is praised for being easy to press and clacky, the Lime stands out for its neutral, feathery touch and polished 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
35g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Lime, one noticeable difference is that the Dream utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Lime features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dream is also favored for its clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Lime is praised for its ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that some users may prefer for a more muted typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Lime feature nylon bottom housings, known for their ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound that can contribute to a more satisfying typing experience. While both switches have different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities each material brings to the switch are split between the top and bottom, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released.
Overall, the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Lime contribute to their distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dream offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Lime provides a deeper and fuller sound. Additionally, both switches share nylon bottom housings, which enhance the overall sound profile with their sound-absorbing properties. Whether one prefers a more clear and resonant sound or a deeper and fuller sound, both switches offer unique characteristics based on their housing materials that can cater to different preferences in typing experiences.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Lime tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 35 grams. This means that the Dream switch will require a slightly stronger push to register a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Lime switch is lighter with 45 grams compared to the Dream switch which has no information available. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Lime switch for longer typing and gaming sessions. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Dareu Dream switch may be the preferred choice despite the slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm. The Dream offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a bit more depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Lime provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times, making it a favorite among gamers. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, with the Dream offering a slightly more traditional feel and the Lime providing a quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Outemu Lime comes in at $3.40 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a more neutral and muted sound profile, perfect for those seeking a quieter typing experience, especially in shared spaces. However, the sound also depends on factors like the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Dream and Lime switches offer a mild typing experience. The Dream switch provides an easy-to-press sensation, with minimal force required for activation, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The Lime switch, on the other hand, boasts a feathery light feel, perfect for those who prefer a subtle, gentle typing experience. Additionally, the Lime switch features a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction for a refined typing experience.
Overall, while the Dareu Dream linear switch is more affordable and provides a clacky typing sound, the Outemu Lime tactile switch offers a unique, lightweight, and silenced typing experience with a touch of tactility. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Dream switch being a budget-friendly linear option and the Lime switch offering a delicate and refined typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you are looking for a very light linear option that is both quality and affordable, the Dareu Dream switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile switch with a feathery typing experience and a touch of tactility, the Outemu Lime switch is the ideal choice. The Dream switch offers an easy-to-press feel with minimal force required, while the Lime switch provides a light and gentle typing experience perfect for extended use. Ultimately, choose the Dream for a smooth linear option and the Lime for a unique tactile experience with a light touch.
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