Dareu Dream vs. Gateron Magnetic Jade
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Magnetic Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the options can often seem overwhelming, but two standout choices are the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Magnetic Jade. The Dareu Dream is a linear switch celebrated for its light actuation force and clacky sound, making it an appealing option for gamers and typists alike who prioritize ease of use and affordability without sacrificing quality. In contrast, the Gateron Magnetic Jade, a hall effect switch, elevates the typing experience with its bright acoustics and distinctive feel, perfect for users looking to enhance their Wooting Hall Effect keyboard. While both switches cater to different preferences—one leaning towards an accessible yet rewarding experience, and the other offering superior sound and performance—each brings unique advantages to the table. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
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
When examining the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Magnetic Jade, it becomes clear that both switches utilize the same materials for their respective top and bottom housings. Each switch features a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharp, high-pitched sound profile characterized by clarity and resonance. This similarity in material means that users can expect both switches to deliver a comparable auditory experience when pressed. The translucency of the polycarbonate also allows for effective RGB lighting, enhancing the visual aesthetics of the switches in both cases.
Delving deeper into the bottom housing, both the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Magnetic Jade are equipped with nylon. The use of nylon introduces a deeper, fuller sound profile that contrasts with the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top. This is because nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, leading to a rounder and more muted sound experience. Given that both switches employ nylon, users can anticipate similarly rich and plush acoustic feedback during typing, as the unique characteristics of the nylon material shape the overall sound signature when the key is pressed.
In summary, while the top and bottom housing materials of both switches are identical, the combined effects of polycarbonate and nylon result in a well-rounded performance for users. The polycarbonate top ensures a crisp sound when releasing the key, while the nylon bottom muffles and enriches the sound when the key bottoms out. This harmony of materials means that whether users choose the Dareu Dream or the Gateron Magnetic Jade, they can achieve a consistent and satisfying typing experience defined by a blend of sharp and deep sound qualities.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dream features an actuation force of 40 grams, whereas the Magnetic Jade has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams. This suggests that the Dream requires more force to register a keystroke, making it a better fit for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, the Magnetic Jade has a defined bottom out force of 55 grams, which indicates that it may feel more solid as it bottoms out, while the bottom out force for the Dream is unknown. This lack of information means we can't directly compare the bottom out experiences; however, we do know that the Magnetic Jade has a heavier bottom out force. Overall, the Dareu Dream is the heavier option, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade is the lighter choice, potentially making the latter preferable for extended typing sessions or gaming due to its lower actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade hall effect switch, the Dareu Dream features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Magnetic Jade has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Dream switch offers a more pronounced keypress experience, catering to users who prefer a deeper feel and tactile feedback when typing. On the other hand, the Magnetic Jade, with its shorter travel distance, aligns well with the preferences of gamers who favor quicker response times and a more immediate actuation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences: those who enjoy a more cohesive and hearty depth may lean towards the Dareu Dream, while those seeking rapid responsiveness would be better suited to the Gateron Magnetic Jade.
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 Magnetic Jade comes in at $8.00 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 exhibits a clacky quality, delivering a sharp and snappy noise that adds an engaging auditory dimension to the typing experience. This crisp, bright sound can be particularly satisfying to users who appreciate a responsive aural feedback from their keyboard. In contrast, while the specifics of the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch's sound profile aren't fully detailed, it is noted for its bright and clacky sound, making it well-suited for those seeking an upgraded auditory experience. However, both switches will ultimately produce distinct sounds influenced by the keyboard construction and keycap choices, which can further enhance or mellow the auditory characteristics.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream switches shine with their easy-to-press design, offering gentle resistance that requires minimal force to actuate. This feature allows for effortless typing and helps prevent finger fatigue, making them particularly comfortable for prolonged use. Additionally, the mild nature of these switches provides a balanced typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. The Gateron Magnetic Jade's tactile feel isn't specifically described here, but the overall impression is that it excels in providing a superior typing experience. Therefore, while the exact feel may not be detailed, it likely contributes to the enhanced typing performance that the switch is known for.
In summary, the Dareu Dream linear switch stands out with its clacky sound and exceptionally comfortable, easy-to-press feel, making it a strong contender for both newcomers and enthusiasts seeking quality at an attractive price. Meanwhile, the Gateron Magnetic Jade switch is celebrated for its bright, clacky sound and superior overall typing experience, implying it delivers a compelling option for those prioritizing acoustics and performance. While they both offer appealing auditory experiences, the Dareu Dream leans towards a more comfortable typing feel, whereas the Magnetic Jade is positioned as a high-performance upgrade. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and users can find satisfaction depending on their individual needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Magnetic Jade Hall Effect switch largely depends on your typing preferences and the specific experience you seek. If you're looking for a very light and easy-to-press linear switch that emphasizes comfort during extended typing sessions, the Dareu Dream is an excellent option. Its gentle resistance allows for effortless key presses, making it ideal for those who prefer a smooth keystroke without straining their fingers. Additionally, the Dream's clacky sound makes it a satisfying choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a more robust typing experience with a medium-light actuation force and superior acoustics, the Gateron Magnetic Jade would be more suitable. Its bright and clacky sound profile, combined with the enhanced longevity and responsiveness of Hall Effect technology, caters to enthusiasts looking for a premium feel and sound while typing or gaming. Ultimately, choose the Dareu Dream for its comfort and affordability when you want ease of use, or select the Gateron Magnetic Jade for an engaging and dynamic typing experience that provides a sensory delight.
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