Dareu Dream vs. Cherry MX Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Cherry MX Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the Dareu Dream and the Cherry MX Speed Silver, both linear switches. The Dareu Dream switches are well-known for their light linear feel and attractive price point, making them a favorite among enthusiasts looking for a balance of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is renowned for its rapid response and full height design, catering to gamers who require instantaneous triggering for fast-paced gameplay. The Dareu Dream is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', 'Mild', while the MX Speed Silver falls under 'Textured', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched'. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
The Dareu Dream and the Cherry MX Speed Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile when typing. This material is known for its stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, they cater to different preferences in terms of pitch and depth.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Dareu Dream and the Cherry MX Speed Silver utilize nylon, which again contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, leading to a rounder sound. This similar choice in bottom housing material emphasizes the importance of the impact it has on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. By utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, both switches aim to provide a satisfying tactile experience for users who appreciate a fuller sound profile.
Overall, while the Dareu Dream and the Cherry MX Speed Silver share similarities in utilizing nylon for their bottom housings, their differences in top housing materials create distinct sound profiles. The Dream's polycarbonate top housing offers a crisper and sharper sound, ideal for those who prefer a higher-pitched typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Speed Silver's nylon top housing emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who enjoy a more rounded sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches aim to provide a tactile typing experience with unique sound profiles based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver's 30 grams. This means that the Dream switch will require a bit more force to register a keystroke. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it hard to compare their overall typing experience when bottoming out. In general, the lighter actuation force of the MX Speed Silver may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream's slightly heavier actuation force could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance when pressing the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for actuation force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Dareu Dream switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more substantial key press experience compared to the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch. Gamers looking for a quicker response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the MX Speed Silver, while those who enjoy a more satisfying key press may opt for the Dareu Dream. Both switches offer reliable performance, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
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, characterized by a sharp and snappy tone when pressed, providing a crisp and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched sound, delivering a deep and satisfying tone that is more bass-heavy and mellow. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard body and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force provides a comfortable typing experience with reduced finger fatigue, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. Described as mild, these switches fall into a safe middle-ground zone in terms of their overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch is noted for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
Overall, while the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch offer different sound profiles and typing feels, they cater to different preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a clacky sound with easy-to-press switches, the Dareu Dream would be a suitable choice for you. Conversely, if you prefer a thocky sound with a textured feel, the Cherry MX Speed Silver would be more aligned with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer quality linear options, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch, consider your priorities. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force for a comfortable typing experience, the Dareu Dream switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if speed and rapid response time are crucial for your gaming needs, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch with its full height and low spring resistance may be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer a clacky sound and an easy-to-press feel, the Dream switch is ideal, while the MX Speed Silver offers a thocky, low-pitched sound and a textured feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences and priorities in terms of typing experience, sound, and feel. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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