Dareu Dream vs. HMX Sunset Gleam
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the HMX Sunset Gleam switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, choosing the right one can significantly influence your typing experience, and two notable options in the linear category are the Dareu Dream and the HMX Sunset Gleam. The Dareu Dream is celebrated for its lightweight feel and remarkable affordability, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts who prioritize both quality and budget. This switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature and a clacky, yet mild sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a tactile response without excessive noise. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, also known as the Duck Duck switch, offers a superb blend of material qualities, delivering a subtle top-out with a satisfying clack that many users find delightful. Additionally, the excellent factory lube provides a smooth keystroke that enhances the overall typing experience. While both switches cater to linear preferences, they present distinct characteristics that may appeal to different types of 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
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and HMX Sunset Gleam share identical housing materials, both using polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. This similarity significantly influences their sound profiles and overall performance. The polycarbonate used for the top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This characteristic promotes clarity and resonance, ensuring that both switches produce bright and vivid sounds, which are especially appealing when illuminated by RGB lighting. Because both models utilize the same top housing material, users can expect a similarly engaging auditory experience when it comes to the rising action of the switches.
In contrast, the bottom housing differences provided by the nylon construction contribute to the distinct feeling experienced during typing. Both switches benefit from nylon's sound-absorbing properties, offering a deeper, fuller tone that stands out during the bottoming-out phase. The nylon material absorbs more sound than its harder counterparts, resulting in a more muted, round sound as users press the keys down. While the top housings enhance the sound when releasing a key, the nylon bottom helps to shape the overall feel of each switch during use. Hence, even though the materials are the same for the two switches, the individual contributions of each one may yield slightly different subjective experiences based on how users engage with them.
Ultimately, while the Dareu Dream and HMX Sunset Gleam switches feature the same polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, the effects of these materials will manifest in complementary ways. Users can expect similar, crisp sound profiles from the top housing while experiencing different typing sensations shaped by the nylon bottom. This harmonious blend of materials promises a rich and engaging typing experience across both models, where each type action is affected by how the housing materials interact with one another. Consequently, those looking for a consistent sound experience can find satisfaction in either switch as they capitalize on the unique acoustics provided by their shared materials.
Weight
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch present a noticeable difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Dream has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Sunset Gleam's actuation force of 42 grams. This means that typists who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may find the Dream more suitable. However, the bottom out force for the Dream is currently unavailable, while the Sunset Gleam has a known bottom out force of 48 grams, which contributes to a more substantial feel when the key is fully pressed down. Consequently, typists who enjoy a stronger push and more feedback may gravitate towards the Sunset Gleam due to its heavier actuation and defined bottom out response. Overall, if you favor a lighter actuation for comfort during long usage, the Dareu Dream is the better choice, whereas the HMX Sunset Gleam provides a more robust experience with its heavier forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance means that the Dream switch offers a more pronounced tactile response, which some users may prefer for its depth and feedback. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam’s 3.5 mm travel distance caters to those who favor quicker key presses and faster response times, often sought after by gamers. Ultimately, if you prioritize a more robust typing experience, the Dream is the preferable option, whereas if you lean towards a more responsive and minimalistic key press, the Sunset Gleam would be the better choice.
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 Sunset Gleam has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sunset Gleam for $2.99.
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 characterized by a clacky noise that adds a lively auditory element to your typing experience. This sharp and snappy sound, described as crisp, bright, and percussive, can evoke a sense of satisfaction with every key press. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam does not provide specific details about its sound profile. However, since both are linear switches, you can expect a quieter operation compared to tactile or clicky alternatives, allowing for a more subdued typing sound, particularly when used with appropriate keycaps and a well-chosen keyboard case.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream switches offer an easy-to-press experience characterized by gentle resistance, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force contributes to reduced finger fatigue, making them ideal for prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Dream is classified as mild, providing a balanced experience that will appeal to a wide range of users. The HMX Sunset Gleam, however, lacks specific descriptions of its tactile feedback or actuation force, leaving a gap in comparison. If the Sunset Gleam were to possess similar characteristics as the Dream, users could anticipate a comfortable typing experience that prioritizes ease and responsiveness.
In summary, while the Dareu Dream switches offer a distinct clacky sound and a notably easy and mild feel, the HMX Sunset Gleam lacks detailed information on its sound and feel qualities. However, if the Sunset Gleam aligns with the characteristics of light linear switches, users can expect a typing experience with a focus on comfort and quiet operation. Whether it's the affordability and light touch of the Dream or the potential subtlety of the Sunset Gleam, both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for an enjoyable linear switch experience, albeit with different auditory signatures.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, you should consider your specific preferences and typing style. If you're looking for a switch that offers an exceptionally light actuation force, making it effortless to type, the Dream is an excellent choice. Its clacky sound profile adds a playful auditory element that can enhance your overall typing experience, especially if you enjoy the tactile feedback of lighter switches. The Dream's affordability also makes it a top option for newcomers eager to explore quality mechanical switches without breaking the bank. On the other hand, if you prefer a touch more resistance with a bottom-out force of 48 grams, the Sunset Gleam may be more suited for you. It combines a satisfying blend of sound and feel, thanks to its carefully selected materials and factory lube that ensure a smooth operation and subtle top-out, making it a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a balance between lightness and feedback. Ultimately, your choice should align with your comfort, sound preference, and typing speed, as both switches offer distinct advantages that cater to different user experiences.
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