Dareu Dream vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch stand out as popular choices among enthusiasts. The Dream offers a light and easy-to-press experience, coupled with a clacky sound profile, making it a great option for those looking for a balance between quality and affordability. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch boasts a sharp tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing feel characterized by a lower-than-average sound frequency. The Blueberry switch offers a buttery and textured typing experience that is both invigorating and stiff. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry, we can see that they have some differences in their top housings. The Dream utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Blueberry features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dream may appeal to those looking for a clearer and resonant typing experience, while the POM top housing of the Blueberry provides a deeper and more subdued sound.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Dareu Dream and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry opt for different materials. The Dream's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Blueberry's POM bottom housing also contributes to a pleasing and unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Although the materials differ, both switches offer a more rounded sound profile from their bottom housings, providing a tactile typing experience that may appeal to users seeking a softer and more subdued sound.
Overall, while the Dareu Dream and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry may have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dream creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the POM top housing of the Blueberry offers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Dream and the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry both contribute to a fuller and more rounded sound profile. Whether you prefer a clearer and resonant typing experience or a deeper and more subdued sound, both switches provide distinct options for users seeking a tactile and unique typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Blueberry's heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, making it hard to compare in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Dream switch may be a better option. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Blueberry switch with its heavier actuation force might be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. Unlike other switches with varying travel distances, users can expect consistent feedback and feel with these switches. Overall, both the Dream linear switch and the NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer the same travel distance, making them comparable in this aspect.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 switch offers a clacky and sharp typing sound, providing a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch has a lower-pitched and resonant sound profile, giving a bass-heavy and immersive typing sensation. Depending on personal preference, the Dream switch may appeal to those who enjoy a sharper sound, while the Blueberry switch may suit those who prefer a deeper and more resonant tone.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Dream switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering a light actuation force that enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a low-impact typing feel. In contrast, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switch is characterized as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff, offering a super responsive and immersive typing sensation with various levels of feedback and actuation force. Those who prefer a gentler typing experience may lean towards the Dream switch, while users seeking a more dynamic and tactile feel may gravitate towards the Blueberry switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer distinct sound profiles and typing feels to cater to different preferences. While the Dream switch provides a clacky sound and an easy-to-press, mild typing feel, the Blueberry switch offers a low-pitched, resonant sound and a snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing dynamics.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light linear switch with an easy-to-press feel and a budget-friendly option, the Dareu Dream switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump, snappy keystrokes, and a heavier bottom out force, the NovelKeys Blueberry switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and desired level of tactile feedback.
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