Dareu Dream vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the smooth action of linear switches and the tactile feedback offered by their tactile counterparts. The Dareu Dream switches epitomize the former, presenting a lightweight linear option that stands out for its clacky sound profile and mild feel, all while remaining remarkably affordable—a combination that appeals to budget-conscious gamers and typists alike. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches deliver a refined tactile experience, featuring a pronounced, medium-strength bump that adds feedback and engagement to each keystroke, making them particularly desirable for those who enjoy a more interactive typing experience. While the Dareu Dream is perfect for gamers seeking speed and responsiveness without breaking the bank, the Cherry MX Purple RGB caters to users who appreciate enhanced tactile sensations in their typing or gaming sessions. 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
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Cherry MX Purple RGB, a clear distinction emerges in the top housing composition. The Dareu Dream utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This lends itself to a more resonate and distinct auditory experience, particularly beneficial for those who appreciate the crispness of key presses. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency enhances the effectiveness of RGB lighting, allowing the colors to shine through more vibrantly. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper, fuller sound due to its softer nature. The result is a more muted auditory experience, which may appeal to users seeking a more subdued typing feel.
However, both the Dareu Dream and the Cherry MX Purple RGB share nylon as their bottom housing material. This commonality allows both switches to deliver a deeper and rounder sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, while the top housings contribute contrasting audio signatures—the clear, crisp notes of polycarbonate versus the softer, fuller tones of nylon—the bottom housings ensure a consistent, deeper resonance across both switches. This means that regardless of the differences in upper materials, users will experience a generally similar sound quality when bottoming out their keystrokes, as both switches benefit from the noise-dampening characteristics of nylon.
Ultimately, the differences in sound profiles created by the top housings of the Dareu Dream and the Cherry MX Purple RGB result in unique typing experiences, yet both rely on the same sound-absorbing benefits of nylon in their bottom housings. This duality reflects how each switch's auditory character is shaped not only by the individual materials but by their interaction as well. Users seeking a crisper, sharper sound will likely lean towards the Dareu Dream, while those who prefer a fuller, softer sound may find the Cherry MX Purple RGB more to their taste, showcasing how variations in housing materials contribute to distinctive yet complementary switch experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, we can see some distinct differences in actuation force. The Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the MX Purple RGB requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This difference may appeal to users with varying typing preferences; those who prefer a lighter switch for extended use, such as long typing sessions or gaming marathons, might gravitate towards the Dream. On the other hand, the MX Purple RGB, with its heavier actuation force, could cater to users who desire a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Both switches have unavailable bottom-out force measurements, making a direct comparison in that aspect impossible. Nonetheless, with the Dream being the lighter option, individuals looking for a more effortless typing experience should consider it, while those who enjoy a firmer keystroke may prefer the Cherry MX Purple RGB.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch feature an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they provide a similar feel when pressed. With both switches having the same travel distance, users can expect comparable tactile feedback and key actuation experiences. This alignment in travel distance ensures that those who prefer the lighter, smoother action of the linear switch can find similar satisfaction in the tactile feedback of the Cherry MX Purple RGB. Ultimately, whether opting for the Dareu Dream or the Cherry MX Purple RGB, users can enjoy a consistent level of performance in their typing or gaming activities.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 characterized by a clacky quality, producing a sharp, snappy sound with each keystroke. This crisp and percussive auditory response gives a lively feel to typing and gaming experiences alike. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches do not have a specific sound profile provided, but it’s worth noting that their sound will also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used. Therefore, while the Dream switch is known for its bright acoustics, the MX Purple's tonal characteristics remain unspecified.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream switches excel with their easy-to-press nature, providing a gentle resistance that requires minimal force to activate. This lightweight actuation results in a seamless typing experience, minimizing finger fatigue during extended usage. Furthermore, the Dream is described as offering a mild overall experience, making it approachable for a wide array of users. In contrast, the tactile feedback of the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—a refined tactile experience with a slight bump—helps create a satisfying tactile sensation that appeals to enthusiasts. However, without further details on the specific feel of the MX Purple RGB, we cannot make a direct comparison.
In summary, the Dareu Dream linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, appealing to those seeking an affordable yet quality option. Cherry MX Purple RGB switches, while not extensively described, offer a tactile experience that has proven popular among keyboard enthusiasts for its deliberate feedback. If you favor a bright auditory experience without caring much for tactile feedback, the Dareu Dream would be suitable. However, if tactile satisfaction is more significant to you, the Cherry MX Purple RGB could be the better choice, even if sound specifics are unknown. Both options serve distinct preferences, ensuring you'll find a satisfying experience regardless of your selection.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you value a light and responsive typing experience with a focus on ease of use, the Dareu Dreamswitch will likely appeal to you. Its clacky sound profile and gentle resistance make it fantastic for long typing sessions or gaming, providing a comfortable feel while reducing finger fatigue. This switch is also budget-friendly, making it suitable for newcomers who want quality without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is a solid choice. The refined bump offers satisfying tactile feedback that can heighten your interaction with the keyboard, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced response while typing or gaming. Thus, whether you lean towards the smooth, easy-to-press nature of the Dareu Dream or the tactility of the Cherry MX Purple RGB, both switches offer unique advantages that cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring that you can find a switch that feels just right for you.
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