Dareu Aqua vs. Kailh Box Jade
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Kailh Box Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press and feels feathery. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactile feedback, characterized by high-pitched clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. While the Aqua switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch and distinctive sound, the Box Jade switch is perfect for those who enjoy crisp clicks 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
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
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Kailh Box Jade both use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it a popular choice for switches with lighting effects. While both switches share this key housing material, they may have slightly different sound profiles due to variations in design and construction.
On the other hand, the Dareu Aqua utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Kailh Box Jade also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Despite having the same material for the bottom housing, differences in switch design and other components can still influence the overall typing experience between the two switches.
In terms of functionality, the properties of the housing materials in a switch can impact both the sound and feel of typing. The qualities of the bottom housing material will play a role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Meanwhile, the top housing material will have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. By understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for sound and feel. While both the Dareu Aqua and the Kailh Box Jade have similar housing materials, subtle differences in their design may still result in distinct typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Box Jade's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort. However, the bottom out force of the Box Jade at 60 grams provides a more substantial typing experience than the Aqua, whose bottom out force is unknown. The Aqua's lack of information on bottom out force may suggest that it is lighter than the Box Jade in this aspect as well. In conclusion, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Dareu Aqua, while those who favor a heavier push feel may lean towards the Kailh Box Jade for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch is 4 mm, while the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Jade, which may make it feel more substantial when typing or gaming. However, the difference of 0.4 mm may not be noticeable to everyone. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Aqua being slightly on the longer side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key feel and responsiveness.
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 Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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, setting it apart with its distinctive signature. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch produces a high-pitched clicky sound with a crunchy tactile bump, providing a different auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, the Aqua may appeal to those who enjoy a lighter touch with a chirpy and clacky sound, while the Box Jade is ideal for individuals seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with crisp clicks and crunchy tactile feedback.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery characteristics, offering minimal resistance and requiring little exertion for key presses. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort, reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. In contrast, the Box Jade switch provides an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel. The accented tactile feedback of the Box Jade adds a layer of satisfaction to the typing experience.
Overall, both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua switch caters to those who prefer a lighter touch and a chirpy and clacky sound, the Box Jade switch is suited for individuals seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a high-pitched clicky sound and crunchy tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a super light and unique typing experience with a chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Dareu Aqua linear switch with its 37g actuation force is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a crisp clicky sound profile and tactile bumps, the Kailh Box Jade switch with a 60g bottom out force would be more suitable. Consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel when choosing between these two switches to find the one that best fits your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose wisely based on your individual needs.
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