Dareu Dream vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and Haimu Viola Tricolor stand out as popular options for enthusiasts. The Dareu Dream is a linear switch known for its lightness and attractive price point, making it a top choice for those looking for quality and affordability. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding character to your typing experience. The Viola Tricolor strikes a balance with its pronounced tactility, providing satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. Each switch has its own unique qualities that make them appealing to different 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Viola Tricolor feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound quality, both switches offer a similar experience due to the shared use of polycarbonate in their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Viola Tricolor differ slightly. The Dream utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor also features a nylon bottom housing, providing the same acoustic benefits as the Dream. Despite their different designs, both switches maintain a consistent sound quality thanks to their shared use of nylon in the bottom housings.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housings and nylon bottom housings in both the Dareu Dream and the Haimu Viola Tricolor results in a well-rounded typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharp and resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon bottom housing enhances the depth and fullness of the sound. Whether it's the impact of bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing or the sound when releasing a key from the top housing, both switches offer a harmonious blend of materials that cater to different aspects of typing sound and feel.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch reveals some differences in weight. The Dream requires a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, while the Viola Tricolor's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Viola Tricolor is heavier with 63.5 grams compared to the Dream's unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer lighter switches for longer typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Dream, while users looking for a more substantial typing experience may favor the heavier Viola Tricolor. In cases where both forces are the same, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and performance.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dream being slightly longer than the Viola Tricolor. Gamers may prefer the Dream for its slightly longer travel distance, as it offers a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, those looking for faster response times may prefer the Viola Tricolor due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 sound profile that is sharp and percussive. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound that provides a deeper and richer typing experience. Both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, with the Dream offering a crisper sound compared to the Viola Tricolor's more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a mild typing experience that is comfortable and gentle on the fingers. In contrast, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides an accented and invigorating tactile feedback, giving users a pronounced amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. While the Dream offers a light and effortless typing feel, the Viola Tricolor delivers a more engaging and reactive typing sensation that appeals to users seeking a tactile experience.
Overall, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Dream stands out for its affordable price point and easy typing experience, while the Viola Tricolor impresses with its distinct sound profile and balanced tactility. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Dream catering to those who enjoy a smoother linear feel and the Viola Tricolor appealing to users seeking a more tactile and responsive typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light linear switch with a delicate touch and budget-friendly option, the Dareu Dream may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch that delivers a satisfying feedback and a unique sound profile without being overly tactile, the Haimu Viola Tricolor could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you value most.
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