Gateron Aliaz vs. Dareu Aqua
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Dareu Aqua switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Aliaz and Dareu Aqua offer contrasting experiences that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is praised for its quiet and tactile design, making it a perfect choice for office settings or for those who enjoy a medium-heavy keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its super light actuation force and unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch. While these general descriptions provide a good starting point, diving deeper into the specifics of each switch will help you make the best decision based on your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the Dareu Aqua both 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, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of switches enhances the overall aesthetic, especially when combined with lighting effects.
However, the bottom housing of the Aliaz is also made of polycarbonate, while the Aqua utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than polycarbonate. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing. The difference in bottom housing material between the two switches may lead to variations in the overall typing experience and sound output.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches can have a significant impact on the sound profile and feel of typing. While both the Gateron Aliaz and the Dareu Aqua feature polycarbonate in their top housing, the Aliaz stands out with a polycarbonate bottom housing as well, enhancing the overall sound profile with its stiffness. On the other hand, the Aqua's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience by producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature. Understanding the role of each housing material can help in choosing the right switch for individual preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Aqua linear switch, it becomes clear that the Aliaz is the heavier option while the Aqua is lighter. The Aliaz has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a heavier push feel. In contrast, the Aqua boasts a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it ideal for users who enjoy typing for longer periods without fatigue. While the bottom out force of the Aqua is unknown, it is safe to assume that it would be lighter than the Aliaz, allowing for a softer typing experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Aliaz catering to those who prefer a heavier typing feel and the Aqua catering to those who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Aqua linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that you will get a similar experience in terms of key travel when using either switch. The 4 mm distance allows for a comfortable typing experience while still providing enough tactile feedback for accurate key presses. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches means that users can expect consistent performance regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is sufficient for most users' typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Dareu Aqua has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aqua for $3.76.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted sound, which provides a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for quiet environments like offices. On the other hand, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sounds that stand out with a lighter touch, creating a distinctive auditory experience. The Aliaz switch will deliver a more subdued sound profile, while the Aqua switch will offer a more playful and lively sound signature, catering to different preferences in keyboard sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aliaz switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This enhances the overall typing feel and reduces friction, providing a sleek and comfortable typing experience. In comparison, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, requiring minimal force to activate keys and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. These light and responsive characteristics make the Aqua switch suitable for users looking for a gentle typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Dareu Aqua linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches provide unique typing experiences tailored to specific preferences. The Aliaz switch excels in providing a heavier and more substantial typing feedback with muted sound, perfect for those seeking a quiet and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Aqua switch stands out with its light actuation force and chirpy/clacky sound profile, offering a playful and responsive typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style, users can choose between these two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Gateron Aliaz tactile switches and Dareu Aqua linear switches, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a quieter typing experience in a medium-heavy weight switch, the Aliaz switches are an ideal choice for office settings or places where noise is a concern. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch with a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua switches may be more suitable for you, especially if you prefer gaming or extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of tactile feedback, sound, and actuation force. Choose the switch that best fits your typing style and needs to enhance your overall typing experience.
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