Dareu Dream vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch to the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is important to note that both have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream switches are highly sought after for their light linear feel and attractive price point, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a combination of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown switches offer a tactile feedback that some users prefer for a more tactile 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
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
Both the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Crystal Brown utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the resonant qualities of the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Despite the similarities in top housing material, the Dream features a nylon bottom housing, while the Crystal Brown also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon bottom housings are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound.
The utilization of different materials for the top and bottom housing of switches can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience. In the case of the Dream and the Crystal Brown, the qualities of polycarbonate and nylon are split between the top and bottom of each switch. Pressing down on these switches will emphasize the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material, in this case polycarbonate, will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This division of housing materials allows for a nuanced and dynamic typing experience, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Overall, both the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Crystal Brown offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences due to their housing materials. While they both feature polycarbonate top housings for a crisp sound profile and nylon bottom housings for a fuller sound, the slight differences in these materials can result in subtle variations in sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Dream and the Crystal Brown may come down to personal preference, as the housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience and the sound produced by each switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is apparent that the Dream is lighter in terms of actuation force at 40 grams compared to the Crystal Brown's 45 grams. Additionally, the Dream does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Crystal Brown has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dream switch may be more suitable, allowing for extended typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. However, it is worth noting that both switches offer different typing experiences due to their different characteristics - the Dream being a linear switch and the Crystal Brown being a tactile switch. Overall, while the travel distance may be the same, the typing feel and feedback of each switch will vary.
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 Crystal 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch lacks a specific sound description, which suggests that it may not produce a distinctive or notable sound compared to the Dream. However, it is important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by external factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is recognized for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring low force to activate. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Dream switch is described as mild, which means it provides a gentle typing experience without extreme characteristics. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have a specific feel description available. Despite this, based on the lack of information, it can be assumed that the Crystal Brown switch may not offer the same light and easy-to-press feel as the Dareu Dream switch.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch stands out for its light linear option at an affordable price point, making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking both quality and affordability. In terms of sound, the Dream switch is characterized as clacky, while the feel is easy-to-press and mild. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch lacks specific information on sound and feel, suggesting that it may not provide as distinct or comfortable typing experience as the Dream switch. Therefore, if you prefer a light and easy-to-press linear switch with a sharp sound, the Dareu Dream switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, you should consider the following factors to make an informed decision. If you are looking for a very light linear switch with a low actuation force and an affordable price point, the Dareu Dream switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile when selecting between these two switches.
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