Dareu Dream vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Dream, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, also a linear switch. The Dareu Dream switches are beloved for their light linear action and budget-friendly price, making them an excellent choice for those looking for a balance of quality and affordability. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches stand out for their buttery smooth keystroke feel and crisp, responsive touch, providing a satisfying typing experience. While the Dream switches offer a clacky and mild typing experience, the WS Onion switches provide a more neutral and polished feel. 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
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
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Dream and the Wuque Studio WS Onion feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housing, the Dream and Onion may still offer slightly different sound profiles based on other factors such as stem and spring design.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dareu Dream and the Wuque Studio WS Onion opt for nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to stiffer bottom housing materials. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches allows for a unique typing experience, providing a balance of impact and sound absorption with each keystroke.
When looking at how the different housing materials impact the overall typing experience of the Dareu Dream and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, it is important to consider the split nature of the qualities each material brings. The bottom housing contributes more to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, where the characteristics of both polycarbonate and nylon can be felt and heard with each keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to users. The Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly. In contrast, the WS Onion's actuation force is unknown, but it has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Dream switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a more robust feel may find the WS Onion switch to be more suitable. Overall, the Dream switch offers a lighter actuation force, while the WS Onion switch presents a heavier bottom out force for users to choose based on their preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that they will provide similar tactile experiences when typing or gaming. With a travel distance of 4mm for both switches, users can expect a consistent feel and actuation point for each keystroke. Whether you choose the Dareu Dream or the WS Onion, you can trust that your typing experience will be smooth and comfortable, with no significant difference in travel distance 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 Wuque Studio WS Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 offers a more clacky experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch provides a neutral sound profile, with a moderate sound level suitable for various settings. The sound preference between the two would ultimately come down to personal preference, as some users may prefer the crisp and bright clack of the Dream, while others may find the neutral sound of the WS Onion more appealing.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Dream switch is known for its easy-to-press quality, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing by reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch is described as buttery and polished, delivering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Dream may cater more to those who prefer an easy-to-press feel, while the WS Onion may appeal to users looking for a polished and refined typing sensation.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dream stands out with its clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a budget-friendly option for those seeking a light linear switch. On the other hand, the WS Onion excels in providing a neutral sound profile and a buttery, polished feel for a more refined typing experience. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both, you can achieve similar results in terms of quality and satisfaction with either switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to individual preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Dream linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize a light actuation force, affordability, and a clacky sound profile, then the Dareu Dream switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a buttery smooth keystroke feel, a moderate-heavy bottom out force, and a neutral sound profile, then the Wuque Studio WS Onion switch would be a better fit. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it is important to consider what aspects of a mechanical keyboard switch are most important to you before making a decision. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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