Dareu Dream vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and Jwick Splash Brothers both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream is a linear switch known for its light actuation and affordable price point, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for quality without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers also features a linear switch with shorter activation and a distinct typing feel, along with a creamy sound signature. While the Dream is praised for its easy-to-press and clacky feel, the Splash Brothers offers a mix of neutral, snappy, and bouncy attributes. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different 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
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Dream and the Jwick Splash Brothers feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users looking for a more defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for better RGB lighting integration, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the switches.
In contrast, the nylon bottom housings of both the Dareu Dream and the Jwick Splash Brothers offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic compared to polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. This can be beneficial for users who prefer a quieter typing experience or enjoy the deeper sound produced by the nylon housing material.
Overall, while both switches utilize similar housing materials in their construction, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housings can impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing contributes more to the sound when a key is released. This split in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience that combines the best qualities of both polycarbonate and nylon, catering to a variety of user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is evident that the Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Splash Brothers has a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams. The actuation force of the Dream provides a lighter touch for quicker typing, while the bottom out force of the Splash Brothers offers a slightly heavier push for a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dream, while those who prefer a slightly heavier touch may opt for the Splash Brothers. Both switches offer different experiences based on their force requirements, catering to individuals with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Dream offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key compared to the Splash Brothers. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the shorter travel distance of the Splash Brothers, while those who prefer a more substantial feeling when typing might prefer the longer travel distance of the Dream. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired 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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 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, which provides a sharp and snappy typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of settings and user preferences. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on personal preference and the choice of keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, providing a low-impact and responsive typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. In comparison, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a snappy and bouncy feedback sensation, giving a lively and responsive feel to each key press. Both switches offer different tactile experiences that cater to varying preferences in typing feel, ultimately providing users with options based on their typing style and preferences.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different user preferences. While the Dream switch is known for its light linear option and affordability, the Splash Brothers switch stands out for its shorter activation and long pole stem, providing a great typing feel accompanied by a creamy sound signature. Both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences, offering users a range of options based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, you should consider your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize affordability and a light actuation force, the Dareu Dream switches would be a great choice for you. These switches offer an easy-to-press feel and a clacky sound profile, making typing sessions comfortable and efficient. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a creamy sound signature, a moderate actuation force, and a variety of typing experiences such as snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished, then the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switches would be a suitable option. Ultimately, choose the switch that best aligns with your typing needs and preferences to enhance your overall keyboard experience.
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