Dareu Dream vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out - the Dareu Dream, a linear switch, and the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch. The Dareu Dream switches are highly regarded for their light linear feel and budget-friendly price, making them an excellent choice for enthusiasts looking for a combination of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switches are known for their distinct clicky typing experience, with a heavier weight and sharp clickiness that adds a satisfying crunch to each keystroke. Each switch offers its own advantages depending on personal preferences, with the Dream providing a smoother typing experience and the Sage delivering a more tactile response. 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
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Kailh Sage, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Dream and the Sage opt for nylon. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that is favored by many typing enthusiasts. The split in housing materials allows for a balanced experience when typing on these switches, with the qualities of the nylon bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate top housing influences the sound upon key release.
While the Dareu Dream and the Kailh Sage share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for their top housings, their choice of nylon for the bottom housings sets them apart in terms of sound profiles. The Dream offers a crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing, while the Sage provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch delivers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Kailh Sage clicky switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Sage is heavier at 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the Dream, whose bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Dream switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more tactile feel may opt for the Sage switch for a more robust typing experience. In terms of actuation force, if both switches have the same force, users can expect similar results in terms of keystroke activation. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch is 4 mm, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of standard travel distances, with the Dream being on the longer side and the Sage being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Sage for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key may opt for the Dream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of the feel and responsiveness desired.
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 Kailh Sage comes in at $6.25 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 characterized as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, while the Kailh Sage clicky switch is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences that can add to the overall typing ambiance, with the Dream focusing on a crisp and bright sound, while the Sage provides a more autumnal crunchiness. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired for the keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream switch is known for being easy to press, offering minimal resistance during key presses and requiring little force to activate. This light actuation force can make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Kailh Sage switch provides an invigorating typing experience with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. The Sage switch also has a sharp tactile bump that is prominent and adds to the overall tactile sensation of typing. While the Dream switch offers a gentler, more approachable typing experience, the Sage switch provides a more intense and immersive typing feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch and Kailh Sage clicky switch offer distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Dream switch provides a light linear option with a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a top choice for those seeking a balance of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Sage switch stands out with its crunchy clicky sound and invigorating, sharp tactile feel, offering a more intense typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a light and smooth typing experience with minimal noise, the Dareu Dream switch would be a great option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the Kailh Sage switch would suit your needs better. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing feel and sound you enjoy. Experiment with both switches to see which one enhances your typing experience the most.
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