Dareu Dream vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) present two compelling options, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Dareu Dream, known for its light, easy-to-press nature, offers an appealing choice for enthusiasts on a budget, balancing quality with affordability. Its clacky and mild sound profile can enhance the tactile experience for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) provides a more substantial feel, designed with a unique PA12 top housing that lends a softer acoustic profile and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch combines sophistication with precise performance, making it ideal for those who appreciate a bit more weight in their keystrokes. Ultimately, your ideal switch will depend on your typing style and preference for sound and 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
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Dream and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches offer distinctive auditory experiences largely shaped by their housing materials. The Dareu Dream features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This material's translucency also enhances the visibility of RGB lighting, adding a visual element that complements its acoustic performance. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) employs a nylon top housing, renowned for its ability to absorb sound. This results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, which resonates more warmly and roundly compared to the Dareu Dream’s crisper tone. The physical characteristics of these two materials thus create unique sound signatures, affecting how each switch feels during use.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which helps create a layer of consistency in sound experience. The nylon composition in both models ensures that the bottom-out sound is deeper and more rounded due to the material's ability to absorb sound waves effectively. This similarity offers a unifying auditory experience despite the top housing differences, demonstrating how the bottom housing's qualities can significantly influence the overall switch performance. Users can expect a solid, warm tone from both the Dareu Dream and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) when they press down on the keys.
Ultimately, the interaction between the different housing materials of the Dareu Dream and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) leads to a rich complexity in their sound profiles. While the polycarbonate top of the Dream contributes to a clearly defined sound when releasing a key, the nylon bottom still anchors the experience with fullness. Conversely, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) maintains a mellow character throughout due to its nylon consistency in both housing components. Thus, despite their differences, each switch has a unique aural signature shaped by its material choices, while also sharing similarities in the warmth and fullness attributed to their shared nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, noticeable differences in actuation force and bottom out force emerge. The Dareu Dream features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, making it suitable for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, ideal for extended sessions whether at work or during gaming. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has a firmer actuation force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial feel that some users may favor for a more tactile typing experience. Additionally, while the Dareu Dream’s bottom out force is currently unknown, the Xinhai has a defined bottom out force of 62.5 grams, indicating a heavier resistance when fully pressing down the key. Consequently, if a user values a lighter switch for comfort during prolonged use, the Dareu Dream would be the better choice, while those who appreciate a heavier switch with defined feedback will likely prefer the HMX Xinhai (Heavy).
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Dream linear switch measures 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference in travel distance highlights the distinction between the two switches: the Dream offers a more traditional and deeper feel suitable for those who appreciate a sturdier keypress, while the Xinhai appeals to users who favor quicker response times due to its reduced travel distance. Gamers, in particular, may find the Xinhai's shorter travel beneficial for fast-paced gameplay. Ultimately, if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Xinhai’s 3.4 mm travel distance is more advantageous, whereas the Dream provides a more substantial and tactile experience with its 4 mm 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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $2.99.
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 is characterized by its clacky nature, producing a sharp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed, making it an engaging choice for typists who appreciate auditory feedback during their typing experience. This crisp acoustic profile can create a lively atmosphere, especially in typing-heavy environments. On the other hand, the sound qualities of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switch are less defined, as specific descriptors are not available. However, it is important to note that the acoustic experience of both switches can be influenced by the keyboard build and keycap materials used, so enthusiasts may find ways to customize sound profiles further.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Dream switch excels in offering a gentle and easy-to-press experience, requiring minimal force for actuation. The lightness of the switch provides an effortless typing sensation, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use, making it particularly appealing to users who prioritize comfort and responsiveness. Additionally, its mild nature suggests that it strikes a balance, appealing to a broad spectrum of typists from beginners to seasoned users. In contrast, while the feel characteristics of the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) are unfortunately unspecified, the designation as a "heavy" switch implies a potentially different tactile experience, likely requiring more force, which could cater to users who prefer a more substantial feedback during key presses.
Overall, both the Dareu Dream and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches cater to distinct user preferences, particularly in sound and feel. The Dream's clacky sound and light actuation make it ideal for those who enjoy auditory cues and easy typing, while the Xinhai (Heavy) switch's characteristics remain unknown but may appeal to those gravitating toward a heavier or more tactile feel. Ultimately, users can expect different experiences from these switches, with the Dareu Dream providing an accessible and enjoyable typing experience, while the Xinhai (Heavy) may offer a contrasting but equally satisfying alternative for those seeking a different linear switch experience.
Conclusion
To summarize, the choice between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a lighter, more accessible typing experience that allows for effortless key presses, the Dream switch is an excellent choice. Its easy-to-press design minimizes finger fatigue, making it ideal for extended typing sessions, especially if you're looking for an affordable option that still delivers quality performance. On the other hand, if you prefer a more robust and tactile typing experience, the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch may be the way to go. With its medium bottom-out force and sophisticated acoustic profile, it offers a satisfying resistance that can enhance your typing precision and feedback. It caters to users who enjoy a bit more weight during their key presses, providing a distinct feel that's both crisp and refined. Thus, consider what elements—such as sound, feel, and required actuation force—are most important to you before making your choice.
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