Dareu Dream vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Tom stand out as popular choices, each offering unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream is a linear switch known for its light and easy-to-press feel, making it a favorite among users who enjoy a smooth typing experience. Additionally, its attractive price point makes it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking both quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom is a tactile switch that provides a satisfying tactile feedback with each keystroke. While it may not have a specific standout feature like the Dream, it appeals to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile response while typing. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, and deciding between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
55g
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
3.30 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 Tom both feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches using RGB lighting. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housings, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic benefits.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Tom utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. Despite both switches using nylon in their bottom housings, users may notice slight differences in sound and feel due to variations in other components and design elements.
When comparing the overall housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Tom, it is important to consider how the qualities of each material are distributed throughout the switch. With different materials used for the top and bottom housings, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles and tactile feedback based on the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dareu Dream switch, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Outemu Tom switch with its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. That being said, both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances. The Dream switch would provide a slightly deeper keystroke, which some may find more satisfying for typing or gaming purposes. On the other hand, the Tom switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which could cater to those looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Tom 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 known for its clacky nature, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, creating a crisp, bright, and percussive sound. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound of the Outemu Tom tactile switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is characterized as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses with minimal force required to activate. This results in a typing experience that is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Unfortunately, there is no specific information provided about the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch stands out for its light linear option, affordability, easy-to-press feel, and clacky sound. While the Outemu Tom tactile switch may offer a different typing experience, without specific details available, it's difficult to make a direct comparison. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and other factors that contribute to the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a very light linear option with an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream switches would be a great choice. They are excellent for enthusiasts looking for quality and affordability. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a different feel, you may want to consider the Outemu Tom. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of feel, sound, and budget. It's important to try out different switches to see which one suits your typing style and preferences best.
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