Dareu Dream vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Dream and Outemu Phoenix offer unique characteristics to cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream is a linear switch, known for its light actuation and attractive price point, making it a popular option for enthusiasts looking for quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix is a clicky switch, featuring a distinctive under-skirt click mechanism that provides a unique and crystalline feel and sound profile. While the Dream is categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', and 'Mild', the Phoenix is labeled as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that appeal to different types of users. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the Outemu Phoenix both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. However, the Dream's bottom housing is made of nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. On the other hand, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall sharp and crisp sound profile of the switch.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Phoenix feature clear polycarbonate housings for their top housings. This not only allows for RGB lighting to illuminate the switches but also signifies that the material used is likely polycarbonate. However, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches, with the Dream utilizing nylon and the Phoenix using polycarbonate. While the Dream's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper sound profile, the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall clear and resonant sound profile of the switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Outemu Phoenix play a significant role in the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile, the Dream's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound quality compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing. The choice of housing materials in each switch affects not only the sound produced but also the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is evident that they have significant differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Phoenix, whose actuation force is unknown. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Phoenix has a heavier force of 62 grams, while the Dream's bottom out force is unspecified. This means that the Dream switch is lighter to press initially, but it is uncertain how it compares in terms of the force required to fully press the key. On the other hand, the Phoenix offers a medium actuation force and a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. Overall, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dream switch, while users looking for a more tactile typing experience may opt for the Phoenix switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Dream offers a more traditional travel distance, making it a good option for those who prefer a deeper press. On the other hand, the Phoenix provides a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers. Both switches have their benefits depending on individual preferences; the Dream for a more deliberate key press and the Phoenix for a quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize depth or speed in your typing experience.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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, providing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offers a crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the eventual sound produced can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is recognized for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force for activation. This results in a comfortable and effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Additionally, the mild characteristics of the switch ensure a pleasant typing feel for most users. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, while the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, both switches cater to specific preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a light and linear typing experience at an attractive price point, the Dareu Dream switch would be ideal. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique clicky switch with a crunchy sound and a polished feel, the Outemu Phoenix switch would be a suitable choice. Ultimately, understanding your typing preferences and priorities will help you determine which switch aligns best with your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a light, linear switch that offers a smooth and effortless typing experience at an affordable price, then the Dareu Dream switch is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique, clicky switch with a crisp and crunchy sound profile that also offers a polished, smooth key travel, then the Outemu Phoenix switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound, as well as your budget. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer distinct features that cater to different typing preferences. Happy typing!
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