Dareu Dream vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Spring Breeze offer distinct experiences for users. The Dareu Dream stands out as a linear switch, known for its light touch and affordability. This makes it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze is a clicky switch, offering a tactile feedback with each key press. While it may not have a specific standout feature like the Dream, its satisfying click sound can be a draw for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 housing materials of the Dareu Dream and Outemu Spring Breeze switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Dream features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. In contrast, the Spring Breeze utilizes a nylon top housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound thanks to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. While both materials have their unique characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dream is ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting, whereas the nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze caters to those seeking a duller and rounder sound experience.
The similarities between the Dream and Spring Breeze switches lie in their nylon bottom housings. Both switches feature a nylon bottom housing that enhances the sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller typing experience. This commonality showcases the importance of the bottom housing material in influencing the overall sound and feel of a switch. While the top housing may impact the sound when a key is released, the qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Dream and Outemu Spring Breeze switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dream offers a distinctively sharp and resonant sound, ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze caters to individuals seeking a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more muffled and rounded typing experience. Whether you prefer the crispness of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 40 grams. However, the Dream has an unknown bottom out force, while the Spring Breeze has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a bit heavier. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dream may be the better choice since it has a lower bottom out force. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Spring Breeze. In either case, the actuation force being the same means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference for lighter or heavier key presses.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, they both offer a smooth keystroke experience with a consistent travel distance. This means that whether you choose the Dream or the Spring Breeze, you can expect similar results in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed. With a travel distance of 4mm for both switches, users can enjoy a comfortable typing experience without the need to adjust to different key travel lengths.
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 Spring Breeze 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, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has no specific sound description provided. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is lauded for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that appeals to a wide range of users. Conversely, there is no specific description provided for the feel of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch stands out for its attractive price point, offering enthusiasts a quality and affordable linear option with a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel. In contrast, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have specific information available on its sound and feel characteristics. It is important to consider your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel when choosing between these two switches, keeping in mind that the Dareu Dream may provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel to the Outemu Spring Breeze based on available information.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Dream linear switch or the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a very light linear switch with a low actuation force and an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light clicky switch with a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Outemu Spring Breeze switch could be more suitable. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and the type of typing experience you prefer when making your decision. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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