Dareu Dream vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and SP-Star RedBlue both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream boasts a very light linear option with an attractive price point, making it a top choice for enthusiasts looking for quality and affordability. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches provide a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, making them ideal for those who enjoy a more subtle typing sound. 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
57g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and SP-Star RedBlue both use polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Dream features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This contrast in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound experience of the two keyboards.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Dream and RedBlue feature clear housings for their top materials, indicating the use of polycarbonate. This allows for the RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switches. The difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Dream utilizing nylon for a softer sound profile, while the RedBlue sticks to polycarbonate for consistency in sound characteristics. This variation in bottom housing material can affect the typing experience, as the qualities of each material will impact the sound and feel of pressing down on the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Dream and SP-Star RedBlue influences the sound and feel of typing on these keyboards. While both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the Dream's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound compared to the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch provides a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these two keyboards may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is clear that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Dream has an actuation force of 40 grams, whereas the RedBlue's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, but the RedBlue is noted as being medium-light at 57 grams. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Dream switch due to its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a stronger push may opt for the RedBlue switch with its potentially heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key outfitted with either switch, you will experience the same distance in terms of travel. This similarity ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. The travel distance of 4 mm is considered standard among linear switches, providing a satisfying keypress without any unnecessary extra travel. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with the same travel distance, making them suitable options for those looking for a linear switch option.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the RedBlue switch is described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, as the Dream offers a crisper sound while the RedBlue offers a deeper and richer tone.
Moving on to feel, both the Dareu Dream and SP-Star RedBlue switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. The Dream switch is praised for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch is also described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the RedBlue switch is noted for being polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dream switch excels in providing a clacky sound and an easy-to-press feel, the RedBlue switch stands out for its low-pitched and thocky sound profile, as well as its polished and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them will come down to individual preferences for sound and feel. If a user enjoys a light linear switch with a crisper sound and easy key presses, the Dareu Dream switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if a user prefers a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound, as well as a polished feel, the SP-Star RedBlue switch would be the preferred option.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a very light linear switch with no bottom out force and an easy-to-press, mild feel, the Dareu Dream switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a low-pitched sound profile with a touch of thockiness, and a polished feel for smoother key travel, the SP-Star RedBlue switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and preferences, so choose the switch that aligns best with what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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