Dareu Dream vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Dream and SP-Star Yanyu both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Dream is a linear switch renowned for its lightness and affordability, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who value quality without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu boasts a delicate typing experience perfect for extended periods of use, thanks to its material blend that produces a crisp sound profile. While the Dream is characterized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Clacky', and 'Mild', the Yanyu is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. 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
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Dream and the SP-Star Yanyu, one key difference is in the top housing material. The Dream utilizes polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Yanyu features a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, offering a sound profile that is described as not particularly sharp but on the brighter side. This contrast in sound profiles highlights the impact that different materials can have on the overall typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Dream is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes the same Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its bottom housing, adding to the unique sound profile of the switch. Both switches benefit from the qualities of their respective bottom housing materials, with the Dream offering a duller and rounder sound while the Yanyu provides a pleasant and brighter sound experience.
While the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Dream and the SP-Star Yanyu result in distinct sound profiles, the overall typing experience of the switches is influenced by the combination of top and bottom housings. The impact of the housing materials can be felt when typing, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we see some key differences. The Dareu Dream has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the SP-Star Yanyu's actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the bottom out force for the Dareu Dream is unavailable, while the SP-Star Yanyu has a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option. The actuation force is essential for triggering a keystroke, while bottom out force measures the force required to press a key all the way down. The lighter bottom out force of the SP-Star Yanyu may be preferred by those who want to type for extended periods without fatigue, while the heavier actuation force of the Dareu Dream may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of the two switches, it is clear that they offer the same tactile experience, as the distance traveled when pressing down on a key is identical. This means that regardless of whether you choose the Dareu Dream or the SP-Star Yanyu switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key feel and overall typing experience.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a neutral sound profile with a hint of thocky, providing a deep and satisfying sound when activated. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, catering to individuals with preferences for either a crisp or rich sound when typing. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard platform and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for being easy-to-press and mild, offering minimal resistance and a comfortable typing experience. The Yanyu linear switch, on the other hand, provides a slightly feathery and subtle feel with a polished finish, designed to reduce finger fatigue and provide a smooth typing experience. Both switches offer a gentle typing experience suitable for extended use, but with slight differences in terms of the specific feel and resistance felt when pressing the keys.
In conclusion, the Dareu Dream linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch each have unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Dream switch offers a light and clacky sound with easy-to-press keypresses, while the Yanyu switch provides a more delicate sound profile with a feathery feel and polished finish. Depending on whether you prioritize a crisp sound or a smooth typing experience, you can choose between these switches to enhance your overall typing satisfaction. Additionally, both switches are geared towards providing a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, ensuring that you'll receive similar results in terms of ergonomic design and functionality.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a clacky sound profile, the Dareu Dream switch may be the right choice for you. It offers an easy-to-press and mild typing experience, perfect for those seeking a light linear option at an affordable price point. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bottom out force of 43 grams and a neutral, thocky sound profile, the SP-Star Yanyu switch could be more suitable. It provides a feathery and subtle typing experience, ideal for those looking for a delicate typing feel or planning to use the keyboard in shared spaces. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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