Dareu Dream vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and Outemu Dustproof Blue offer distinct qualities for different preferences. The Dareu Dream is a linear switch known for its light and easy-to-press feel, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a balance of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch that provides a clacky sound while typing. Although the Dustproof Blue does not have a specific standout feature mentioned, it appeals to those who enjoy the tactile feedback of a clicky switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences. 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
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 Dustproof Blue utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiff plastic that produces clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound performance, both switches offer similar qualities with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Dream features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dustproof Blue's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound. This contrast in bottom housing material results in a noticeable difference in the typing experience and sound produced by the switches.
When one switch has different materials for its top and bottom housing, the qualities of each material are divided between key press and key release. The bottom housing influences the sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials can lead to a more nuanced typing experience, with distinct characteristics for key press and release depending on the specific housing material used in each part of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is apparent that the Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Dream is unknown, while the Dustproof Blue has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dream due to its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue provides a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch are both 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This can result in a similar typing experience in terms of the tactile feedback and overall feel of the switches. Despite the similarities in travel distance, it is worth noting that the Dream is a linear switch, meaning it has a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump, while the Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, offering audible click feedback with each key press. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, but in terms of travel distance, they offer a consistent typing experience for users.
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 Dustproof 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
On the sound front, the Dareu Dream linear switch is well-known for its clacky sound profile, which provides a sharp and snappy auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown. Both switches are likely to produce distinct sounds based on their switch type and design, with the Dream offering a lively and pronounced clackiness that may appeal to those who enjoy a more lively typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for activation. This light actuation force allows for effortless and comfortable typing, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the Dream switch is described as having a mild typing experience, offering a safe middle ground between more pronounced characteristics. The feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is unknown, but it is likely to provide a different tactile experience than the linear Dream switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch stands out for its affordable price point, light linear feel, and clacky sound profile, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly yet quality switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch remains a bit of a mystery in terms of its sound and feel characteristics. When considering both switches, it is important to weigh the subjective qualities of sound and feel based on personal preference and typing style to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches are likely to offer distinct typing experiences, with the Dream providing a known balance of light linear feel and clacky sound, while the Dustproof Blue offers potential for a unique clicky experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Dream linear switch or the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light linear switch with no bottom out force and a lower price point, the Dareu Dream switch is a great option for those looking for quality and affordability. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy clicky switch with a bottom out force of 65 grams, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch may be more suitable for you. Consider the sound and feel characteristics of each switch as well, as these factors can greatly impact your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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