Dareu Dream vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Neo White both offer unique advantages for different types of users. The Dareu Dream, a linear switch, is well-known for its light touch and affordability, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a quality switch without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White, also a linear switch, distinguishes itself with its medium weight and smooth actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience with every keystroke. While the Dream is characterized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Neo White is categorized as 'Mild' and 'Neutral', offering a slightly different 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
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Neo White feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the housings of these switches leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making them ideal for those who prefer a more distinctive typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, adding a visual flair to the switches. With similar top housings, users can expect a comparable sound and aesthetic experience from both the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Neo White.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Neo White utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. With nylon bottom housings, users can enjoy a more muted and satisfying typing experience, contrasting the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housings of both switches.
When considering the overall typing experience of the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Neo White, the combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings allows for a balanced sound profile. The impact of each housing material is felt differently during typing, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite potential differences in sound and feel due to the housing materials, users can expect a comparable level of quality and performance from both the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Neo White.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Haimu Neo White's unknown actuation force. However, the Dream does not provide information on its bottom out force, while the Neo White has a medium bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Dream may be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing them to type for longer periods without fatigue. On the other hand, the Neo White may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different options for users based on their preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Dream being lighter and the Neo White being heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dream being on the longer side and the Neo White being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Neo White for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Dream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience, but will provide similar results in terms of functionality and performance.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Dream linear switch is noted for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback when pressed. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a more neutral sound, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing environments. The sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors like the keyboard and keycap used.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Dream switch is characterized by its easy-to-press design, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring little force to activate. This results in a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Dream switch is described as providing a mild typing feel that falls within a safe and approachable zone. Similarly, the Haimu Neo White switch also falls under the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for most users.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch is distinguished by its light actuation force, affordability, and clacky sound profile, providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts seeking quality at a budget-friendly price. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch stands out for its medium weight, smooth actuation due to the Ly stem, and neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various typing needs. Both switches offer a mild typing feel, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing experience for users. Ultimately, choosing between the Dareu Dream and Haimu Neo White switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch, consider your preferences and typing needs. If you value a very light linear option with an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream switch may be the way to go. It offers an easy-to-press feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a smooth actuation and slightly reduced total travel, the Haimu Neo White switch might be more suited for you. It provides a mild typing experience with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so choose based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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