Dareu Aqua vs. TTC Bluish White
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Bluish White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aqua stands out with 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 Bluish White offers a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a snappy sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a buttery and polished typing 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
37g
Actuation force
42g
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
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and TTC Bluish White both feature polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Due to polycarbonate's stiffness, it leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting. However, while the top housings of both switches are similar in material and qualities, their bottom housings differ.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dareu Aqua and TTC Bluish White utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. Despite having different top housings, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches emphasizes a consistent experience when it comes to sound and feel.
Overall, while the Dareu Aqua and TTC Bluish White may have different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities each material brings to the switch create a dynamic typing experience. The top housing's impact is more noticeable when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced, while the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Both housings work together to contribute to the overall sound profile, making each key press a unique and satisfying experience for users.
Weight
Comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, the Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Bluish White's 42 grams. The bottom out force of the Bluish White is 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Aqua is unknown. The lighter actuation force of the Aqua may appeal to users looking for a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, ideal for work or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier actuation force of the Bluish White provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, providing options for users with varying preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Bluish White tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with Aqua being on the slightly longer side. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Bluish White switch, while those who enjoy a deeper key press experience may lean towards the Dareu Aqua. Ultimately, both switches offer a balance between travel distance and responsiveness, providing a satisfying typing or gaming experience depending on individual preferences.
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 TTC Bluish White has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Bluish White for $4.63.
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 Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, providing a distinct auditory experience that stands out from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Depending on your preference, the Aqua switch may be more appealing for those who enjoy a light and snappy sound, while the Bluish White switch may be preferred by those who prefer a smoother and mellower typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized as easy-to-press and feathery, offering a light actuation force that requires minimal effort to activate. This can enhance the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. In contrast, the TTC Bluish White tactile switch is described as buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, and polished. These qualities indicate a smooth, gentle, and refined typing experience with a subtle tactile bump for added feedback. The Bluish White switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a more uniform and polished typing sensation.
Taking into consideration both sound and feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and TTC Bluish White tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aqua switch provides a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, suitable for those who favor a light and snappy typing experience. Meanwhile, the Bluish White switch offers a low-pitched and buttery sound with a mild, stepped, subtle, and polished feel, appealing to those who enjoy a smoother and more refined typing sensation. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Bluish White tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you value a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, then the Dareu Aqua switch is the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you desire a satisfyingly poppy typing experience with a light bottom out force and a buttery, mild, stepped, subtle, or polished feel, then the TTC Bluish White switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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