Dareu Dream vs. Gateron Melodic
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Melodic switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Melodic offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream is a linear switch known for its light actuation and affordability, making it a popular choice for those seeking a smooth typing experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that offers a unique combination of smoothness, clicky sound, and tactile feedback, thanks to advancements like factory lubing and dual-railed stems. While the Dream may appeal to those looking for an easy-to-press and clacky switch, the Melodic is preferred by users who enjoy a buttery, resonant, invigorating, and crunchy typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the Gateron Melodic both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. This means that both switches will offer a similar sound profile and aesthetic when it comes to their top housing material.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Melodic utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other housing materials. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to their bottom housing material.
While the top and bottom housings may have different materials in each switch, the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when letting go of a key. This means that the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Melodic will offer a balance of different sound profiles and typing experiences due to their housing material choices.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, it is evident that the Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Melodic's unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Melodic features a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Dream's bottom out force is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Dream may be more appealing to those who prefer a softer typing experience for extended periods, while the heavier bottom out force of the Melodic provides a more substantial feeling when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent key press experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. The similarities in travel distance suggest that users can achieve similar tactile feedback and actuation points with both switches. Overall, whether you opt for the Dareu Dream or the Gateron Melodic switch, you can expect a similar key press experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 sound, known for its sharp and snappy characteristics, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch presents a resonant and crunchy sound profile, with a higher-pitched tone and clean, sharp feedback reminiscent of autumn leaves. Each switch provides a unique auditory sensation, appealing to different preferences in sound production for mechanical keyboard users.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering gentle resistance and a low-impact typing experience that enhances comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Gateron Melodic switch is characterized by its buttery and invigorating feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation with pronounced feedback and a reactive feel that immerses users in their typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in typing feel, with the Dream focusing on ease of use and the Melodic offering a more dynamic and engaging typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch offer distinct sound profiles and tactile sensations tailored to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Dream provides a light linear option with a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel at an affordable price point, the Melodic introduces advancements like smooth lubing and dual-railed stems to deliver a resonant and crunchy sound with a buttery and invigorating typing experience. Depending on your sound and feel preferences, both switches offer quality options that can elevate your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Melodic clicky switch, you should choose the Dream if you prefer a light linear option with a lower bottom out force and easy-to-press feel. The Dream's attractive price point also makes it a top choice for those seeking quality and affordability. On the other hand, opt for the Melodic if you enjoy the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback, as well as a higher bottom out force and a more invigorating typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for sound, feel, and bottom out force, so consider these factors carefully to select the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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