Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron Beer
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Beer switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Beer tactile switch for your mechanical keyboard, you'll find two distinct options with their own unique characteristics. The Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Beer switch from Gateron offers a refreshing translucent green design and a stepped tactility that provides a subtler feel compared to other tactile switches. While both switches are easy to press and produce a clacky sound, they cater to different preferences in terms of actuation force and tactile feedback. 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
37g
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing material for both the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Beer switches is polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Aqua has a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use it.
In terms of sound and feel, the differences between the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and Gateron Beer switches become apparent. While the polycarbonate top housing of both switches impacts the sound when a key is released, the nylon bottom housing of the Aqua influences the sound of bottoming out the key with a deeper and fuller tone. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile when bottoming out a key. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches provides a unique typing experience based on the qualities of each material.
Overall, the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and Gateron Beer switches showcase how different materials can impact the sound and feel of mechanical switches. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in the top housing, emphasizing a clear and resonant sound profile, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, the use of nylon in the Aqua's bottom housing creates a distinct typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound, compared to the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing, which provides a sharper and crisper tone. Understanding the role of top and bottom housing materials in mechanical switches highlights the importance of housing material selection in creating a desired sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron Beer tactile switch which requires 38 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Aqua is unknown while the Beer requires 50 grams, making it the heavier option. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Aqua, whereas individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Beer due to its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique advantages based on the user's preference, with the actuation force and bottom out force playing crucial roles in determining the typing feel and experience for the user.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Beer switch is shorter than the Aqua switch. The Aqua switch provides a traditional 4 mm travel distance, offering a deeper key press feel, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Beer switch's shorter 3.4 mm travel distance appeals to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Aqua being longer and the Beer being shorter, catering to different preferences in typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sounds, giving it a distinct acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Beer tactile switch resonates with a characteristic clacky sound, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, with the Aqua being more chirpy and the Beer being more focused on a sharp clacky sound.
In terms of feel, the Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light actuation force that requires minimal effort from the fingers. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Beer tactile switch provides a stepped tactility that offers a subtler feel compared to the continuous curve of round tactility. Additionally, it shares the easy-to-press quality of the Aqua switch, making it a comfortable option for typing for long periods.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Beer tactile switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua switch is distinguished by its chirpy sound and feathery feel, while the Beer switch stands out with its clacky sound and stepped tactility. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel. However, both switches provide an enjoyable typing experience, with the Aqua offering a lighter touch and unique sound profile, and the Beer providing a refreshing tactile feel with a characteristic clacky sound. Overall, whether you choose the Aqua or the Beer, you can expect a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a super light and unique typing experience with a distinct chirpy and clacky sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch with its 37g actuation force would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a light 50g bottom out force and a stepped tactility, the Gateron Beer tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the Dareu Aqua switch offers a feather-light and easy-to-press feel, while the Gateron Beer switch provides a subtle tactile feedback with a characteristic clacky sound. Consider these factors and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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