Dareu Dream vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Dream and the Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a switch. The Dareu Dream offers a very light linear option at an attractive price point, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking for both quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Dareu Master provides a medium weight linear switch with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness during operation. While the Dream may be preferred for its easy-to-press nature, the Master stands out for its 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and Dareu Master keyboards both offer unique housing materials for a distinct typing experience. The Dream's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Master's POM top housing, which offers a deeper and more muted sound. While the Dream's polycarbonate housing is stiffer, leading to a clearer and resonant sound, the Master's POM housing creates a unique sound that is pleasing to the ears. Both materials have their own advantages, catering to different preferences in sound quality.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Dream features a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Master's POM bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Master contributes to the keyboard's unique sound profile, adding depth and a muted quality to the typing experience. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings play a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of each keyboard.
When considering the overall typing experience, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in each keyboard influences the sound and feel of pressing keys. The qualities of the bottom housing have a notable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing the key. Whether it's the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Dream or the softer POM bottom housing of the Master, each component plays a crucial role in delivering a unique typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dream switch, as it requires less force to register a keystroke. On the other hand, those who prefer a bit more resistance when typing may opt for the Master switch with its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired level of force required for a key press.
Travel distance
The Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is slightly shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch. Both switches offer a decent amount of travel distance, with the Dream providing a bit more depth when pressed down. Gamers may prefer the Master switch for its slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Dream switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it affects the typing or gaming experience.
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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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, both the Dareu Dream and Master switches are described as having a clacky sound profile, producing sharp and snappy sounds when pressed. This means that users can expect a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience with either switch. However, it's important to note that the overall sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Dream is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Master provides a mild typing experience, which is more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Master switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Dream and Master switches both offer linear options, they do have some differences in terms of sound and feel. The Dream switch is ideal for those looking for a very light and easy-to-press option at an attractive price point, while the Master switch provides a slightly heavier and clacky typing experience with exceptional smoothness. Overall, users can expect similar results in terms of sound but may prefer the Dream for its lightness and affordability, or the Master for its medium weight and polished feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer an extremely light switch with a gentle typing experience and an attractive price point, the Dream switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-weight switch that offers a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Master switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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