Dareu Aqua vs. Kailh Box Navy
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Kailh Box Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Aqua and Kailh Box Navy mechanical keyboard switches offer unique features and experiences for those in search of the perfect switch for their typing needs. The Aqua linear switch boasts a super light 37g actuation force, resulting in an easy-to-press feel with a chirpy and clacky sound signature, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. On the other hand, the Box Navy clicky switch provides a heavier typing experience with a sharp and resonant sound signature reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s, perfect for those who enjoy a crunchy and stiff 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
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
90g
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
While both the Dareu Aqua and the Kailh Box Navy feature polycarbonate top housings, the key difference lies in the sound profile they produce. The polycarbonate used in both switches creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound when typing. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, despite these similarities, the differences in other housing materials may impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing material, the Dareu Aqua incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Kailh Box Navy also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. While both switches share this characteristic, the other components of the switch may influence the overall sound and feel, making each switch unique in its typing experience.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Dareu Aqua and Kailh Box Navy may share certain housing materials, such as polycarbonate, the overall typing experience may vary depending on the specific combination of housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Aqua switch is unknown, while the Box Navy switch has a heavier bottom out force of 90 grams. This means that the Aqua switch may provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Box Navy switch offers a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a heavier push. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the category of standard travel distances, with the Aqua being slightly longer than the Box Navy. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Box Navy a potentially popular choice in this regard. Those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Aqua switch due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision 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 Navy 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, creating a distinctive auditory experience. The chirpy characteristic adds a hint of squeakiness to the sound, while the clacky nature produces sharp and snappy noises that are crisp and percussive. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch provides a resonant sound profile with a higher pitch, along with a crunchy texture reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Both switches offer a distinct sound experience that can be further influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is characterized by its light actuation force, making it easy-to-press and feathery to the touch. This lightness reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, providing a comfortable and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Kailh Box Navy switch offers a sharp tactile bump that provides intense feedback with each keypress. The switch's invigorating feel, combined with a moderate to firm actuation force, creates a stimulating typing sensation. Additionally, the Box Navy switch is noted for its stiff nature, requiring a higher amount of force compared to other switches.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch with chirpy and clacky sounds, the Aqua switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile, the Box Navy switch might be more to your liking. Both switches provide unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring a personalized typing experience for users.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a light touch with a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a heavier typing experience with a resonant and crunchy sound profile, along with a sharp tactile bump and firm actuation force, then the Box Navy switch would be the better option. Consider your typing needs, sound preferences, and desired typing feel to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and enhances your overall typing experience.
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