Dareu Dream vs. Gateron New North Pole V2
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Gateron New North Pole V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Dream and the Gateron New North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream switch is well-known for its light linear option and cost-effectiveness, making it a favorable choice for enthusiasts looking for a balance between quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 stands out with its removal of the rubber dampener, resulting in a crisper typing experience while still maintaining the signature frictionless typing feel that users love. While the Dream switch boasts attributes like being easy-to-press and clacky, the New North Pole V2 is characterized by its polished, creamy 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
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
Ink Housing Material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated 15.4mm
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the Gateron New North Pole V2 both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Dream utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing.
While the top housing of both the Dareu Dream and the Gateron New North Pole V2 is polycarbonate, the bottom housing material differs between the two switches. This split in housing material affects the sound and feel of each switch differently. The Dream's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In contrast, the V2's polycarbonate bottom housing complements the top housing, enhancing the sharp and crisp sound when releasing a key. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how the qualities of each housing material can be distributed throughout the switch.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in both the top housing of the Dareu Dream and the Gateron New North Pole V2 results in a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, higher-pitched tones, and clarity. The distinction lies in the bottom housing material, with the Dream's nylon bottom housing providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to the V2's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether it's the Dream's emphasis on absorbing sound or the V2's focus on creating a resonant sound, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that the Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the New North Pole V2's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Dream is unknown, whereas the New North Pole V2 has a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating a heavier typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Dream may be more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the New North Pole V2 with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. When comparing the two, their travel distances are identical, meaning users can expect a consistent key press experience in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. This similarity ensures that whether you choose the Dareu Dream or the Gateron New North Pole V2, you'll get the same results in terms of travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a smooth and consistent key press feel due to their equal travel distances.
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 New North Pole V2 has an MSRP of $6.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the New North Pole V2 for $5.70.
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 known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch's sound is not specified, so it may provide a quieter or different auditory experience. Both switches can offer a satisfying typing sound depending on the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is characterized by an easy-to-press sensation, requiring minimal force for key activation. This light actuation force can enhance typing comfort and reduce finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Dream switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. In comparison, the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch is polished and creamy, providing a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and effortless key travel. The New North Pole V2 is also described as frictionless, ensuring a fluid and seamless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Dream switch is known for being clacky with an easy-to-press and mild feel, while the New North Pole V2 switch provides a polished and creamy experience with a frictionless typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, both switches can deliver a gratifying typing experience with their unique features. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches depends on individual preferences for sound and feel, but both switches can provide a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron New North Pole V2 linear switch, consider the specific characteristics that each switch offers. If you prioritize a very light linear switch with an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream may be the best option for you, especially if you prefer an easy-to-press and mild typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-bottom-out force switch with a crisper typing feel and a frictionless typing experience, the Gateron New North Pole V2 may be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and budget. Choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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