Dareu Dream vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Dream and HMX SU represent two distinct options within the linear switch category, each appealing to different preferences and typing styles. The Dareu Dream switches are celebrated for their lightweight feel and economic pricing, making them an excellent choice for enthusiasts who desire a quality typing experience without breaking the bank. Their characteristics, described as 'easy-to-press,' 'clacky,' and 'mild,' offer a more playful feel that can make long typing sessions enjoyable. On the other hand, the HMX SU switches impress with their robust construction, featuring a full PA12 housing and a T5 stem that produces a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile. This switch is designed for those who appreciate a more substantial tactile response while typing. Both options cater to different user needs, but the choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize affordability and lightweight operation or durability and deeper acoustic feedback. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and HMX SU switches feature distinct top housing materials that significantly shape their sound profiles and aesthetic appeal. The Dream utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its rigidity and translucence. This material produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound that is crisper and more resonant. Its clarity makes it an ideal choice for switches designed to showcase RGB lighting, as the polycarbonate allows the light to shine through beautifully. In striking contrast, the HMX SU is made with a nylon top housing, a material characterized by its softness and sound absorption capabilities. As a result, the SU yields a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a more rounded auditory experience. While both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences, the Dream's polycarbonate housing caters more to those who seek brightness in their acoustic feedback, whereas the SU provides a warmer sound.
When it comes to bottom housing, both the Dareu Dream and HMX SU share a commonality in utilizing nylon. This consistency in material choice means that both switches possess a deeper, fuller sound profile because nylon absorbs some of the vibrations and sound energy when a key is pressed down. This feature leads to a duller and rounder sound signature for both models during bottom-out, ensuring that the typing experience remains comfortable with a rich auditory feedback. Consequently, while both switches sport different top housings and, therefore, distinct sound signatures when released, the similarity in their bottom housings ensures that users will have a consistent experience when key presses are fully engaged.
In summary, while the Dareu Dream and HMX SU differ significantly in their top housing materials—contributing to their contrasting sound profiles—the similarities in their nylon bottom housing align their bottom-out experiences. Users who enjoy the bright, clear sound of polycarbonate will find the Dream particularly appealing, especially in setups featuring RGB lighting. Conversely, those who prefer a nuanced and fuller sound will appreciate the HMX SU's nylon top housing, with neither switch compromising the comforting depth offered by their nylon bottom pieces. Ultimately, both switches exhibit unique characteristics that cater to various preferences, all while sharing a significant element that harmonizes their auditory output.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, we see distinct differences in their actuation forces. The Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it more suitable for prolonged typing and gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the HMX SU requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. While the bottom out force for the Dream is unknown, the HMX SU features a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it can provide a firmer response when fully pressed down. This difference in bottom out force suggests that even with the HMX SU's heavier actuation force, users may find a more pronounced tactile feedback upon bottoming out. Overall, if someone favors a lighter switch for ease of use over extended periods, the Dareu Dream would be the preferred choice, while the HMX SU would cater to those who appreciate the feel of a heavier switch and the feedback that comes with its bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, it is evident that the Dream offers a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the SU provides a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Dream's travel distance aligns with the traditional 4 mm standard, which many users find favorable for a more tactile experience, providing a deeper feel when pressing the keys. In contrast, the SU's shorter distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker key presses and enhanced responsiveness, although some users might find this abruptness less satisfying. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on individual preferences for travel distance; those who value deeper engagement might opt for the Dream, while those prioritizing speed could prefer the SU.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 switches are characterized by a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy tone when pressed. This crisp and bright sound can contribute to a lively typing experience, making it enjoyable for users who appreciate auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX SU switches feature a more subdued sound profile that is described as relatively deep; however, specific details on its acoustic qualities are not provided. Therefore, if a quieter typing experience is your preference, the SU switches may suit you better, while those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory response will likely favor the Dream switches.
Regarding their tactile qualities, the Dream switches are known for being easy to press, requiring minimal force, which makes them ideal for extended typing sessions. Their gentle resistance offers a comfortable typing experience, ultimately helping to reduce finger fatigue. Complemented by a mild feel, these switches provide a balanced and approachable typing experience, striking a good middle ground for most users. In contrast, there is no specific information available regarding the tactile feel of the HMX SU switches, leaving a gap in understanding how their actuation might compare to the Dream switches.
In summary, the Dareu Dream switches are favored for their lively and clacky sound profile, paired with a light and comfortable feel that enhances typing efficiency. The SU switches, while lacking detailed descriptors for their sound and feel, are known for their deeper sound profile and full PA12 housing, which may influence the overall experience. Ultimately, if you prefer a brighter and more responsive typing experience, the Dareu Dream switches are the clear choice, while the HMX SU could be a viable option for those seeking a deeper auditory experience, albeit with less information about their tactile response.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your specific typing preferences and use case. If you prioritize a light touch and effortless typing experience, the Dareu Dream is an excellent choice, especially if you are budget-conscious while still seeking a quality switch. Its clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel provide a snappy and enjoyable experience, making it well-suited for casual typing or gaming where responsiveness is key. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch, with its 50-gram bottom-out force and full PA12 housing, might appeal more to individuals who appreciate a more substantial feel and deeper sound profile, making it a suitable option for those who prefer a slightly more tactile experience and are less sensitive to key actuation force. In essence, if you're focused on a softer, more delicate typing experience, opt for the Dareu Dream; if you desire a more grounded feedback and deeper acoustics, go for the HMX SU.
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