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Dareu Dream vs. Gateron Type S

An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Type S, both of which are linear switches. The Dareu Dream switch is well-known for being a light and clacky option that is easy to press, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who value quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S stands out for its 65g bottom-out weight and balanced sound signature, catering to those who prefer a weightier keystroke and a neutral yet deeper acoustic experience. While the Dareu Dream is more budget-friendly and offers a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Type S provides a more substantial keystroke and a refined sound profile. 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

55g

Bottom-out force

N/A

Bottom-out force

65g

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

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Bottom housing material

Nylon

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Mount type

PCB (5-pin)

Spring

Stainless steel

Spring

18mm single-stage spring

Housing materials

The Dareu Dream and Gateron Type S both feature different materials in their top and bottom housings, with the Dream utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. In contrast, the Type S uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dareu Dream creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Gateron Type S produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound.

In terms of aesthetics, the Dareu Dream's polycarbonate top housing allows for the incorporation of RGB lighting due to its translucency, adding a visual flair to the switch. In comparison, the Gateron Type S's nylon housing may not offer the same lighting possibilities, but it does provide a classic look that complements a wide range of keyboard designs. Both switches offer a unique sound profile based on their housing materials, with the Dream delivering a crisp and clear sound while the Type S offers a more rounded and duller sound.

Overall, the choice between the Dareu Dream and Gateron Type S ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. While the Dream may appeal to those who prioritize a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, the Type S is a solid option for those seeking a deeper and fuller sound experience. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches offer quality construction and performance that will satisfy most keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the polycarbonate top housing of the Dream or the nylon housing of the Type S, you can expect similar results in terms of overall switch performance and durability.

Weight

The Dareu Dream linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Gateron Type S linear switch which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Dareu Dream is unknown, while the Gateron Type S has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dareu Dream for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gateron Type S. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the overall typing experience, and users should consider their preferences when choosing between the two switches.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar typing experiences and feedback from both switches in terms of travel distance. Despite the similarities in this aspect, other factors such as actuation force and sound may differ between the two switches.

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 Gateron Type S comes in at $4.70 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 offers a clacky sound, characterized by a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S linear switch provides a neutral and subdued sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. The Dream switch's sound is more crisp and bright, while the Type S switch leans towards a deeper and more neutral acoustic experience. Depending on personal preference, individuals may gravitate towards the clacky sound of the Dream switch or the subdued sound of the Type S.

Moving on to feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Dream switch offers a mild typing experience, appealing to a wide range of users with its approachable characteristics. Unfortunately, details regarding the feel of the Gateron Type S linear switch are not available at this time. It can be assumed that the Type S switch may offer a different typing experience due to its 65g bottom-out weight, but for a guaranteed light and gentle typing experience similar to the Dareu Dream switch, the Dream option would be preferable.

In conclusion, both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Dream switch provides a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Type S switch offers a neutral and subdued sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing experience. For those seeking a budget-friendly and light linear switch option, the Dareu Dream switch is a solid choice, while the Gateron Type S switch may appeal to those looking for a weightier keystroke and a more neutral sound signature. Both switches offer quality and performance, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Dream linear switch or the Gateron Type S linear switch, think about your preference for key weight and sound profile. If you prefer a very light keystroke with a clacky sound, the Dareu Dream switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you lean towards a weightier keystroke with a neutral or subdued sound, the Gateron Type S switch with its 65g bottom-out force might be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the overall typing experience you are looking for.

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