Dareu Dream vs. Gateron Lunar Probe
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Lunar Probe switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Dream linear switch is well-loved for its light and easy-to-press feel, along with a satisfyingly clacky sound profile, all at an affordable price point. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch boasts Gateron's innovative dual rail mechanism for stable and consistent keypresses, as well as a smooth pre-lubed feel with a subtle sound signature. Both switches offer a linear typing experience, but with distinct qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the Gateron Lunar Probe both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. Both keyboards will offer a similar sound experience with their polycarbonate top housings, providing a clear and resonant typing sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Dream utilizes a nylon material while the Lunar Probe also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both keyboards will offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to the bottom housing material used.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the housing materials will be split between the top and bottom of the keyboard. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, providing a deeper and fuller sound due to the nylon material used. On the other hand, the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key, creating a sharper, crisper sound profile with the polycarbonate material. Both the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Lunar Probe offer a unique combination of housing materials to provide a versatile and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Lunar Probe's 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with a gentler touch. However, the bottom out force of the Lunar Probe at 50 grams provides a more substantial typing experience compared to the Dream, where the bottom out force is unknown. Weight is crucial in deciding between the two switches, with lighter actuation forces being preferred for longer typing sessions, while heavier bottom out forces offer a more tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the Dream offers a slightly deeper press compared to the Lunar Probe. Gamers may prefer the Dream for its longer travel distance, which allows for a more substantial key press and potentially more tactile feedback. On the other hand, those looking for quicker response times may lean towards the Lunar Probe with its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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 sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch boasts a subtle sound signature, making it a quieter option. Both switches offer different sound profiles, so your choice would depend on whether you prefer a louder or quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a gentle typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. It is also described as mild, providing a comfortable typing feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is known for its incredibly smooth and pre-lubed linear sensation, ensuring stable and consistent keypresses. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, so your preference would depend on whether you prioritize ease of typing or smooth keypresses.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky sound and easy-to-press keys, the Dareu Dream switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch would be more fitting. Both switches provide quality and affordability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of your preference. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific characteristics that appeal to you the most.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities. If you value a very light linear switch at an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize stability, consistency, and a smooth, pre-lubed linear typing experience, the Gateron Lunar Probe switch is worth considering. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize affordability and lightness or stability and smoothness in your mechanical keyboard switch.
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