Dareu Dream vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Brown. The Dareu Dream switch stands out as a light linear option with an attractive price point, making it a top choice for enthusiasts looking for quality and affordability. It is easy-to-press, clacky, and mild, providing a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown switch offers a tactile feedback without the audible click, offering a balance between typing comfort and sound. While the Dream switch may be preferred for its lightness and affordability, the Brown switch may be chosen for its tactile feedback. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
One key difference between the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Brown is their top housing material. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite having the same housing material, the overall typing experience may differ based on other factors such as the bottom housing material.
The bottom housing material of the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Brown diverges with the Dream utilizing a nylon bottom housing and the Brown using the same polycarbonate as the top housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. This contrast in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound profile of the switch.
When comparing the Dream and the Brown, it's important to consider how the different housing materials affect the typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing means that the qualities of each material will impact different aspects of the switch. The bottom housing will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Understanding these nuances can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Dream switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Brown switch has a heavier actuation force of 53 grams. Both switches have unknown bottom out forces, but the Brown switch is considered medium-heavy at 65 grams. This means that the Dream switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for long work days or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Brown switch would suit those who enjoy a more substantial push feel for a stronger typing experience. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of a switch can greatly impact the overall typing feel and comfort level for the user.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of distance travelled from the top to the bottom. The user will feel a consistent amount of key travel with either switch, making them equally suitable for those who prefer a moderate travel distance. There is no noticeable difference between the two switches when it comes to their travel distance, as they both offer the same amount of key travel during use.
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 Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 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
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch is a great option for those who prefer a light and easy-to-press typing experience with a clacky sound profile. It offers a smooth and effortless typing feel, making it suitable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch offers a different typing experience that is tactile but not clicky, providing a mild and approachable feel that appeals to a wide range of users. While the sound and feel of these switches may differ, both switches provide quality and affordability for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, whether you choose the Dareu Dream or the Outemu Brown, you can expect satisfying results tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a very light and smooth linear switch with an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream linear switch would be a great choice for you. It offers an easy-to-press feel and a clacky sound profile, making it ideal for enthusiasts seeking a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a 65-gram bottom out force, the Outemu Brown tactile switch would be more suitable. While the specific characteristics of the Brown switch are not provided in the comparison, tactile switches typically offer a bump in the keystroke that provides feedback to the typist. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and budget.
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