Dareu Dream vs. KTT Sea Salt Lemon
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Dream and KTT Sea Salt Lemon mechanical keyboard switches, both options offer a linear typing experience that is smooth and consistent. The Dareu Dream is highly regarded for its light touch and affordability, making it an attractive choice for those looking for a quality switch at a reasonable price. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon stands out for its progressive spring and buttery smooth typing experience, providing a satisfying feel with each key press. While the Dareu Dream is known for being easy-to-press and clacky, the Sea Salt Lemon is described as low-pitched and neutral. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, but each has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Dareu Dream and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. The similarities in the top housing material of both switches suggest that users can expect a comparable sound experience when typing on either the Dareu Dream or the KTT Sea Salt Lemon.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, they differ in their bottom housing materials. The Dareu Dream utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Similarly, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon also features a nylon bottom housing, confirming that both switches prioritize sound quality and typist experience through the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches.
The unique combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in both the Dareu Dream and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon highlights the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound profile of mechanical switches. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. This distinction in housing materials allows both switches to offer a diverse typing experience that caters to different preferences, whether users prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile or a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch reveals some interesting differences. The Dareu Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Sea Salt Lemon requires slightly more at 45 grams. The bottom out force of the Dream is unknown, while the Sea Salt Lemon has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is considered medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Dream may be the better option, as it requires less force to register a keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent travel distance from top to bottom. This similarity ensures that both switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of key feel and travel distance. As a result, users can expect similar results when using either the Dareu Dream or the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch.
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 Sea Salt Lemon comes in at $2.80 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 noted for its clacky sound, which is sharp and snappy, giving off a crisp and bright tone when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch offers a low-pitched and mellow tone, coupled with a neutral sound profile that suits a range of users from beginners to advanced typists. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch provides an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required to activate the keys. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, the mild characteristics of these switches offer a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Similarly, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch also falls into the mild category, ensuring a comfortable and approachable typing feel that caters to a wide range of preferences.
Overall, both the Dareu Dream and KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. While the Dareu Dream excels in providing a light and clacky typing experience, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon focuses on a smooth and mild typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and budget considerations. Nonetheless, both switches are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Dream linear switch or the KTT Sea Salt Lemon linear switch, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. If you are looking for a very light linear switch that offers a smooth typing experience at an affordable price point, the Dareu Dream may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a buttery smooth feel and a mellow, low-pitched sound, the KTT Sea Salt Lemon could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and budget. Both switches offer their own unique advantages, so it's important to prioritize what matters most to you when making your selection.
Mentioned in this article
