Dareu Dream vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, the decision can be influenced by specific preferences and needs. The Dareu Dream switches offer a light linear option that is easy to press and provides a clacky feel, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for quality switches at an affordable price point. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue switch's characteristics are not clearly defined, leaving room for exploration and discovery. Both switches have their own unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Outemu Cream Blue switches differ in their top housing materials, with the Dream featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Cream Blue has a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both materials are effective in enhancing the sound profile of the switches, albeit in slightly different ways.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Dream and Cream Blue switches utilize nylon for this component. This material is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While the specific characteristics of the bottom housing may impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, having the same material used for this component in both switches allows for consistency in sound profile between the two.
Overall, the Dareu Dream and Outemu Cream Blue switches showcase how different housing materials can affect the sound profile of mechanical switches. While the Dream's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches have nylon bottom housings, contributing to a consistent deep and full sound profile. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound can help enthusiasts choose switches that best suit their preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams. This means that the Dream may provide a slightly lighter and easier typing experience, which could be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cream Blue has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel when fully pressed. While the actuation force of the Cream Blue is heavier, the Dream does not provide information on its bottom out force, making it difficult to directly compare. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of key presses.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, the travel distance is equal for both switches, resulting in a consistent typing experience regardless of which one is used.
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 Cream Blue 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Dream linear switch is favored for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound qualities are not specified. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Regarding feel, the Dareu Dream switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance during keystrokes and requiring very little force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing comfortable and reduces finger fatigue, providing a responsive and low-impact typing experience. Additionally, the Dream switch is described as having a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that falls in a middle-ground zone. Unfortunately, information about the feel of the Outemu Cream Blue switch is not available.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch stands out for its light linear option, affordability, clacky sound, easy-to-press feel, and mild typing experience. While the qualities of the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch are unknown in terms of sound and feel, it's important to consider individual preferences when choosing between these switches. Both switches provide options for enthusiasts seeking different qualities in their mechanical keyboards, and with proper customization and pairing with compatible components, users can achieve similar results in sound and feel based on their personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, you should consider your preference for noise and tactile feedback. If you are looking for a light, linear switch with a minimal bottom out force and a budget-friendly price, the Dareu Dream switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clicky sound and tactile feedback, the Outemu Cream Blue switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are seeking.
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