Dareu Dream vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are various options to consider, each offering unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its light touch and pleasant clacky sound, all at an attractive price point, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts looking for a balance of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch stands out for its sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, paired with a plush and whisper quiet bottom-out sensation. While the Dream switch may appeal to those who prefer an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, the U4 switch may attract individuals looking for a muted and sharp tactile 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the Gazzew U4 have distinct differences that affect the sound profile and feel of the switches. The Dream utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing produces a rich and deep sound due to its softness. On the other hand, the Dream's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the U4's blend bottom housing delivers a similar rich and deep sound profile. Despite their differences in materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housings.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of the Dareu Dream provides a more high-pitched and clear sound compared to the Gazzew U4's blend top housing, which offers a richer and deeper sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Dream creates a duller and rounder sound, while the U4's blend bottom housing delivers a deep and resonant sound profile. While the materials may differ, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience with their specific sound qualities attributed to their housing materials.
When it comes to the tactile experience, the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the feel of the switches. The Dream's polycarbonate top housing influences the keypress sound when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the U4's blend top housing produces a rich sound upon key release, while the blend bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience by providing a soft yet tactile feel. Whether using the Dareu Dream or the Gazzew U4, the combination of top and bottom housing materials creates a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is evident that the Dream is lighter in both aspects. The Dream has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the U4 requires 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Dream is unknown, whereas the U4 has a bottom out force of 62 grams. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Dream switch, while the higher bottom out force of the U4 provides a more substantial feel when pressing the keys all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter typing feel for extended use or a heavier push for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Dream offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4, which may result in a slightly slower response time for the U4. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the U4, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may favor the Dream. Both switches offer a traditional travel distance that is comfortable for typing, but for specific preferences in gaming or typing styles, individual users may find one switch to be more suitable for their needs.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its clacky sound, which produces a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, providing a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, creating a softer and quieter typing experience that minimizes the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream switch is characterized by being easy-to-press and mild, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This results in an effortless and comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a sharp tactile bump that is intense and prominent, offering a distinct feedback with each keypress.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch is a great choice for those seeking a light linear option with an affordable price point, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is ideal for individuals looking for a silent tactile switch with a plush bottom-out sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a light and easy-to-press switch with a clacky sound, the Dareu Dream linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump with a muted, low-pitched sound, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal typing style and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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