Dareu Dream vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch. The Dareu Dream switches are praised for their lightweight linear feel, making them ideal for those looking for a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switches offer a satisfying tactile bump with a light actuation force, perfect for users who appreciate a tactile 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the KTT Phalaenopsis both use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. However, the Dream's bottom housing is made of nylon, which gives it a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound, which may provide a more enjoyable typing experience for some users.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, their bottom housing materials differ significantly. The Dream's nylon bottom housing offers a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Phalaenopsis's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The choice of material for the bottom housing can greatly impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, with nylon providing a more subdued typing experience and polycarbonate offering a more vibrant and lively sound.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the KTT Phalaenopsis play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of each switch. The Dream's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a unique blend of sharpness and depth in sound, providing a balanced typing experience. In comparison, the Phalaenopsis's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout its housing creates a more consistent, sharper sound profile across the board. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel when typing, with the Dream offering a blend of characteristics and the Phalaenopsis providing a more uniform experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, it is evident that the Dream requires a slightly higher actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis's 37 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Phalaenopsis is 50 grams, which is noticeably heavier than the Dream's unknown bottom out force. This indicates that the Phalaenopsis switch provides a lighter actuation but a heavier bottom out compared to the Dream switch. This could cater to different preferences as some may prefer a lighter actuation for extended typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier bottom out for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch are both 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of key press feel and feedback. While both switches offer the same travel distance, they differ in their overall typing experience due to their linear and tactile characteristics, respectively. However, when it comes to the physical distance the switch travels, both the Dareu Dream and the KTT Phalaenopsis provide the same comfort and responsiveness to 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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, with a deeper and richer tone resembling the depth of bass tones. Depending on personal preference and setup, the Dream's clacky sound may be more suitable for those who enjoy a crisp and percussive typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis's bassy and thocky sound may appeal to individuals looking for a deeper and more resonant auditory feedback during typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is praised for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue even during prolonged use. The switch is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is characterized as stepped, featuring a two-stage tactile feedback where users can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This design ensures a more nuanced and distinct typing feel, with a satisfying tactile bump that enhances the overall typing experience.
When considering all available information, both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Dream excels in providing a light and easy-to-press linear option with a clacky sound profile, the Phalaenopsis stands out with its gentle 37g actuation force, stepped tactile feedback, and bassy/thocky sound characteristics. Whether you prefer a linear switch with a sharp sound like the Dream or a tactile switch with a more pronounced feedback like the Phalaenopsis, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience depending on your individual preferences. Ultimately, by selecting either switch, you can expect a similar level of quality and performance tailored to your specific typing needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Dream linear switch or the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a light linear switch with a very affordable price point, the Dareu Dream switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a lighter 37g actuation force and enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch would be a great option. Additionally, consider the sound profile you prefer, with the Dareu Dream being described as clacky and the Phalaenopsis offering a bassy and thocky sound. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific feel, sound, and typing experience you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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