Dareu Aqua vs. Bsun Pine
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Bsun Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch offer unique characteristics to suit 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 Pine switches offer a notably sharp tactile bump and fast action, catering to users who appreciate direct and no-nonsense tactility. While the Aqua is easy-to-press and feathery, the Pine is accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. Both switches have their own strengths and advantages, but 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Bsun Pine both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing on the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting to shine through the housing. Despite being different brands, the polycarbonate top housings of both switches offer similar sound qualities and aesthetic benefits.
On the other hand, the Aqua and Pine differ in their bottom housing material, with the Aqua utilizing a nylon bottom housing and the Pine also featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Despite the differences in bottom housing material, both switches offer similar typing experiences in terms of sound profile.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Dareu Aqua and Bsun Pine allows for a well-rounded typing experience. The split between the qualities of each housing material means that the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches provide a mix of sharpness and depth in their sound profiles, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Bsun Pine tactile switch, it is evident that the Aqua is the lighter of the two switches. The Aqua has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Aqua require less force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Pine is heavier with a bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Aqua's unknown bottom out force. This means that while the Aqua is lighter to actuate, the Pine provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and the desired weight of the switch.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered the more traditional length. On the other hand, the Bsun Pine tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, making the Pine a potentially better option for gaming purposes. However, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Aqua switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific tasks for which they will be used.
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 Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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 distinctive chirpy and clacky sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Bsun Pine tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's hard to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, both switches' sound profiles can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used, meaning you can potentially achieve similar results in sound depending on your setup.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light and effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. In contrast, the Bsun Pine tactile switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a prominent tactile bump and firm actuation force for a more immersive and reactive typing sensation. While the feel of these two switches may differ in terms of tactility and actuation force, both can deliver a satisfying typing experience depending on your preference for lighter or more pronounced feedback.
Considering all the available information, the Dareu Aqua linear switch excels in providing a light and unique sound profile, as well as a feather-light and easy-to-press typing feel. On the other hand, the Bsun Pine tactile switch offers a sharp and snappy tactile feedback with a notable bump and firm actuation force for a more direct typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel, with the potential to achieve similar results in either aspect depending on your setup and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a super light and easy-to-press switch with a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is the way to go. It provides a feather-light typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, perfect for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you desire a medium-heavy switch with sharp tactile feedback and a quick bottom-out, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is the ideal choice. Its sharp and snappy feel with pronounced feedback makes typing an invigorating experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Aqua and Pine switches comes down to personal preference in weight, sound, and feel. Whatever your preference may be, both switches offer a distinctive typing experience that caters to different tastes and typing styles. Choose the one that best suits your needs and typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
