Dareu Dream vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, preferences often hinge on the type of feedback and typing experience each switch delivers. The Dareu Dream switch stands out as a light linear option, appealing to users who enjoy smooth, uninterrupted keystrokes ideal for fast-paced gaming and typing. Its clacky yet mild sound profile, coupled with an attractive price point, makes it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking both quality and affordability. In contrast, the Outemu Milk Blue offers a distinct clicky feedback, ideal for typists who crave auditory responses to each keystroke, enhancing both the tactile experience and the satisfaction of typing. While the Milk Blue excels in providing a spirited and lively typing experience that many find satisfying, it may not suit those who prefer a quieter workspace. Both switches cater to different user preferences—whether you prioritize a smooth action or a satisfying click. 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
N/A
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
The Dareu Dream and the Outemu Milk Blue keyboards utilize the same materials for their switch housings, specifically featuring polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. This similarity in materials produces comparable auditory outcomes, delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the top housing. Both switches benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal when RGB lighting is employed. Consequently, users looking for vivid lighting effects will find that both switches perform equally well in this regard, enabling them to achieve striking visuals alongside a resonant sound.
On the contrary, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Dream and the Milk Blue utilize nylon, a material known for its ability to absorb sound effectively. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, setting the tone for an enriching typing experience. Since nylon is softer than polycarbonate, it inherently has a dampening effect, contributing to a rounder sound when using these switches. Typing on either switch will evoke a sense of warmth and satisfaction, allowing users to enjoy a pleasant auditory response as they work or game.
Ultimately, while both the Dareu Dream and Outemu Milk Blue utilize the same materials in their switch constructions, the distribution of those materials plays a crucial role in their performance. The polycarbonate top housing produces a crisper sound during the release of each key, while the nylon bottom housing delivers a more muted and full sound upon bottoming out. As a result, both switches provide a balanced auditory experience, merging clear highs with rich lows, creating an enjoyable typing environment. Thus, although the two models incorporate identical materials, the combination of their unique properties ensures that users will find a familiar yet distinct typing experience across both models.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, we note some distinct differences in actuation force. The Dream switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it a lighter option, while the Milk Blue requires a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. This difference will significantly affect the typing experience; users who prefer a light touch will find the Dream more suited for longer typing sessions, whereas those who enjoy a heavier feel and a more substantial keystroke will gravitate towards the Milk Blue. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, which means we cannot compare their final pressure resistance when fully pressed down. However, the actuation forces alone indicate that the Dareu Dream is the lighter switch, while the Outemu Milk Blue is the heavier option. This distinction can guide users in choosing a keyboard switch that aligns with their personal typing preferences and comfort during extended use.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they travel the same distance from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity indicates that users will experience a comparable feel when activating keys on both switches, resulting in similar tactile feedback and overall performance in typing or gaming scenarios. Since both switches share the same travel distance, this suggests that they will provide nearly identical results in terms of keystroke depth, allowing users to enjoy a consistent feel regardless of their switch preference.
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 Milk 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
The sound profile of the Dareu Dream linear switch is characterized by a clacky tone, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory feedback as they type. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch lacks specific sound characteristics outlined in this comparison, leaving us with no detailed description of its acoustic profile. However, it's important to remember that the overall sound experience of both switches will also heavily depend on external factors such as the keyboard case and keycap material chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream switches excel with an easy-to-press mechanism that offers minimal resistance during key activation. This lightweight actuation enhances comfort during extended typing sessions by reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive, low-impact typing experience. Additionally, the mild nature of these switches makes their sound and feel approachable, suitable for a wide range of users. Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue switch, which leaves a gap in comparing tactile sensations between the two options.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch stands out for its delightful clacky sound and exceptionally comfortable, easy-to-press feel, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an engaging typing experience without sacrificing comfort. Conversely, the Outemu Milk Blue lacks specific sound and feel details that would allow for a thorough comparison. For newcomers, exploring the Dareu Dream can provide a solid foundation in switch characteristics and performance, while the Milk Blue's qualities remain a mystery, and further exploration may be warranted to fully grasp its capability. Both options offer unique experiences, but the Dream delivers clear advantages in known criteria.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, your choice will largely depend on your typing preferences and the experience you wish to achieve. The Dareu Dream is an excellent choice if you prioritize a smooth, light touch with effortless key presses, making it ideal for long typing sessions or gaming where speed and comfort are key. Its clacky sound adds a fun auditory element, making it great for users who enjoy a bit of feedback without the distraction of harsh noises. On the other hand, if you thrive on tactile feedback and the satisfaction of a pronounced click when you type, the Outemu Milk Blue switch might be more up your alley. Clicky switches like the Milk Blue create an engaging and pronounced sound that many typists find enjoyable, providing a level of interaction that can enhance the overall typing experience. Therefore, weigh your personal preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience to make the right choice that aligns with your mechanical keyboard goals.
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