Dareu Dream vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Dream and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°. The Dareu Dream offers a light linear option, known for its attractive price point, making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking quality and affordability. On the other hand, Gateron's Zero Degree 0° linear switch revolutionizes silent typing with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, delivering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. Both switches have their strengths and unique features that make them appealing to different preferences. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Dream and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
On the other hand, the Dream utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out keys. This can provide a unique typing experience for users who prefer a softer, more cushioned feel when typing.
Overall, the difference in housing materials between the Dareu Dream and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches allows for a variety of typing experiences. While both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings, the Dream's nylon bottom housing offers a different sound profile compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate bottom housing. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing feel, users can choose between the switches to find the one that best suits their needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Dream is lighter with an actuation force of 40 grams compared to the Zero Degree 0° which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have an unknown bottom out force, making it challenging to determine which is heavier in that aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Dream may appeal to users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the slightly heavier actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Dream linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Dream has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing or gaming experience. For those who prefer a more traditional feel with a bit more depth in their key presses, the Dream switch may be the better option. On the other hand, the Zero Degree switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in quicker response times and may be preferred by gamers looking for a more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer quality linear switches, so regardless of the choice made, users can expect similar high-quality performance.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
Overall, when comparing the Dareu Dream linear switch to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, there are some notable differences in subjective qualities. The Dream switch is known for its light and affordable nature, providing a clacky sound and an easy-to-press feel that offers a responsive and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch stands out for its innovative self-padding design, delivering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While the sound qualities of these switches may vary based on other factors such as keyboard and keycap choice, users can expect to receive similar levels of satisfaction in terms of feel, as both switches offer a gentle and comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the Dareu Dream and Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches will come down to personal preference and priorities, whether it be price, sound, feel, or other factors that matter most to the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering which switch to choose between the Dareu Dream linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, you should opt for the Dareu Dream if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a light and easy-to-press typing experience. This switch is ideal for enthusiasts who prioritize affordability without compromising on quality. On the other hand, if you are seeking a more innovative and advanced silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for price, typing experience, and overall keyboard feel.
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