Dareu Aqua vs. Kailh Box White V2
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Kailh Box White V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and Kailh Box White V2 offer two distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua, a linear switch, is celebrated for its super light 37g actuation force, allowing for effortless typing that many users find appealing for long sessions or gaming. Its unique blend of chirpy and clacky sounds provides an engaging auditory feedback without overwhelming the senses, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a lighter touch. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 switches deliver a satisfying click with each keystroke, thanks to their crisp tactile feedback and pronounced audible click sound. This makes them an excellent choice for touch typists or anyone who appreciates the satisfying response of a clicky switch, often preferred for typing accuracy and rhythm. Each switch has its merits: the Aqua offers a smooth, light typing experience devoid of tactile bumps, while the Box White V2 engages with a tactile and auditory experience that can enhance typing enjoyment. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Kailh Box White V2, both switches feature similar top housing made from polycarbonate, which provides a distinctive auditory experience. The use of polycarbonate contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as it is a stiffer plastic that promotes resonance. Furthermore, due to its translucent nature, polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for RGB lighting setups, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of keyboards that incorporate this feature. As both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, users can expect a similar sound signature and visual effect, making them comparable in this aspect.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Dareu Aqua and Kailh Box White V2 are both crafted from nylon, a material known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb sound effectively, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience when typing. This characteristic distinguishes the tactile feedback of the switches, as the nylon bottom housing plays a significant role in shaping the bottom-out sound and the overall feel when a key is pressed. Despite both switches sharing the same bottom housing material, the interplay of polycarbonate and nylon results in a unique blend of sound profiles that can depend on how each user experiences the switch.
Ultimately, while both the Dareu Aqua and Kailh Box White V2 share top housing characteristics through their polycarbonate construction, they maintain a rich differentiation in user experience owing to their nylon bottom housings. The acoustic qualities of each switch will reflect the materials used, resulting in a clear and resonant sound during key release, coupled with a more rounded and full-bodied sound at the bottom-out. This hybrid combination allows enthusiasts and casual users alike to enjoy a diverse range of auditory experiences while typing, underscoring the importance of housing materials in mechanical switch design. The shared top housing material ensures that users will achieve similar acoustic results, but the nuances provided by the nylon bottom housing create a distinct tactile experience between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch, there is a noticeable difference in actuation force. The Aqua switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a softer touch for extended typing sessions, making it a good option for those who use their keyboard for work or long gaming periods. In contrast, the Box White V2 requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial tactile experience that some typists may find satisfying. While the Dareu Aqua's bottom out force is unknown, the Kailh Box White V2 has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it provides a definitive tactile feedback upon bottoming out, which further adds to its heavier feel. In summary, the Aqua switch is the lighter option, while the Box White V2 is heavier, making them suited to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Dareu Aqua features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for deeper key presses, offering a more substantial tactile feedback. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to users who lean towards quicker response times typical in gaming environments. For those who appreciate a more pronounced feel in their key presses, the Dareu Aqua's longer travel distance may be more appealing, while gamers or those preferring swift actions might favor the Kailh Box White V2 for its slightly shallower depth. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on personal preference for either deeper or more immediate key response.
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 White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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 auditory experience with its chirpy and clacky characteristics. The chirpy aspect introduces a slight squeak that distinguishes it from more traditional linear switches, while the clacky nature adds a sharp and snappy sound upon key press. This combination results in a refreshing auditory profile that stands out, especially for those who enjoy a lively sound while typing. In contrast, the Kailh Box White V2 switch is renowned for its crisp and pronounced click, which provides a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. This engaging click sound adds a layer of delight for typists who appreciate clear audio cues in their typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is designed to be exceptionally easy to press, featuring a lightweight actuation force of just 37g. This allows for effortless keystrokes with minimal resistance, making it ideal for long typing sessions without causing finger fatigue. The feathery sensation adds to the comfort, making it a suitable choice for both gamers and professionals who spend extended periods on their keyboards. On the other hand, the Kailh Box White V2’s tactile feedback and clickiness provide a more pronounced typing experience, but the specific details regarding feel are not provided. It can be inferred that the Box White may offer a more satisfying resistance and tactile sensation akin to traditional clicky switches, contrasting with the light touch of the Aqua.
Overall, the comparison between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch reveals two distinctly different typing experiences. The Auburn’s combination of chirpiness and clackiness captures a lighter, more whimsical auditory experience while promoting an effortless typing feel. Conversely, the Box White V2 promises the satisfying audible feedback and potential tactile engagement that typists seeking a more traditional mechanical experience value. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference, particularly whether one favors a softer linear experience or a pronounced clicky sensation.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a light touch and find comfort in minimal resistance, the Aqua switch is an excellent choice. Its 37g actuation force, combined with a distinct chirpy and clacky sound profile, makes it particularly suitable for those who enjoy a gentle, effortless typing experience, especially during long sessions of gaming or productivity work. On the other hand, if you appreciate tactile feedback and audible confirmation with each key press, the Kailh Box White V2 is the way to go. With its 50g bottom-out force and crisp, clicky sound, it provides a satisfying and engaging typing experience that can enhance your gaming and typing enjoyment. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prefer a lighter, softer feel or a more tactile and responsive experience with noticeable sound feedback.
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