Dareu Dream vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch to the Durock T1 tactile switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences to meet different preferences. The Dareu Dream switch is praised for its light linear design, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers quality performance. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch stands out for its comfortable typing experience, featuring a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Dream switch is easy-to-press and clacky, the T1 switch offers a stepped feel with low-pitched and neutral sound characteristics. 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
67g
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Dream and the Durock T1 feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic lends itself to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a touch of visual appeal to the switches.
In contrast, the Dream and T1 both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housing. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings of the switches allow for a more varied typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release.
Overall, the Dareu Dream and Durock T1 both offer unique sound profiles due to the combination of their housing materials. While the polycarbonate top housings create a sharp and crisp sound, the nylon bottom housings provide a deep and full sound when typing. Both switches allow for customization with RGB lighting, offering a visually appealing typing experience. While the housing materials may differ between the Dream and T1, their individual qualities combine to create a satisfying typing feel for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is clear that the Dream is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams compared to the T1 which has an unknown actuation force. However, the T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Dream, which has an unknown bottom out force. The actuation force of the Dream provides a lighter and smoother typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more effortless keystroke. On the other hand, the T1's heavier bottom out force offers a more tactile and substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This consistency in travel distance between the two switches allows for a similar typing experience in terms of the depth of the keystrokes. Whether you choose the Dareu Dream linear switch or the Durock T1 tactile switch, you can expect to have a satisfying typing experience with the same travel distance.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 offers a clacky experience, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch provides a low-pitched sound, with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the T1 switch is considered neutral in sound profile, suitable for various purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in a low-impact typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The switch's mild characteristics provide a comfortable and approachable typing feel. Conversely, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a stepped feel, with two distinct stages in the keystroke process. It also provides an accented tactility that is prominent yet not overwhelming, giving a balanced typing experience. Additionally, the T1 switch is polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, while the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer different sound and feel characteristics, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to specific preferences. The Dream switch excels in its light linear feel and clacky sound, making it a budget-friendly option for enthusiasts seeking quality and affordability. On the other hand, the T1 switch stands out for its comfortable medium bump tactile feel and low-pitched, neutral sound, providing a pleasant typing experience reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages, and selecting between them would depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a light linear switch with an easy-to-press feel and a more clacky sound, the Dareu Dream might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a stepped feel, an accented bump, and a low-pitched sound, the Durock T1 could be the better option. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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