Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron CAP Anniversary mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to specific preferences. The Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press and feathery. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary boasts a novel CAP structure that results in exceptionally smooth keystrokes, with a design focused on reducing resistance and enhancing smoothness for a snappy, creamy, and polished typing experience. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing leads to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users looking to enhance their typing experience with RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate adds an aesthetic appeal to the switches, giving them a sleek and modern look.
In terms of bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon material to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with harder bottom housings. The use of nylon in the bottom housing is a classic choice that offers a unique sound profile for users who prefer a softer and more muted typing experience.
While both switches share similar housing materials for their top and bottom components, the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron CAP Anniversary differ in their overall design and construction. The split between the bottom and top housings allows each material to enhance different aspects of the typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and overall typing experience due to the shared materials used in the construction of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, significant differences can be observed. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the CAP Anniversary's heavier 50 grams. The bottom out force of the Aqua is unknown, while the CAP Anniversary has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Aqua would be the ideal choice as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the CAP Anniversary due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces of each switch play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience and user preference.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, it can be said that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key travel and tactile feedback when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches. The travel distance of both switches is standard and falls within the typical range for linear switches. As such, users can expect a consistent typing experience regardless of whether they choose the Dareu Aqua or the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch.
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 Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 is known for its unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, adding a fun and percussive element to typing. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch boasts a smooth and refined typing sound, thanks to its innovative CAP structure designed for reduced resistance and enhanced smoothness. While the Aqua switch offers a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound, the CAP Anniversary switch provides a more refined and smooth auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is recognized for its light 37g actuation force, making it easy-to-press and feathery to type on, reducing finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch offers a snappy and creamy typing experience, characterized by a super responsive feel and a smooth, buttery sensation. The Aqua switch provides a light and effortless typing experience, while the CAP Anniversary switch delivers a responsive and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing session.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a unique sound profile and a light actuation force, the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness, responsiveness, and a refined typing experience, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch would be the ideal option. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on your personal typing style and preferences. In general, with the Aqua switch, you can expect a lighter touch with chirpy and clacky sounds, while the CAP Anniversary switch provides smoothness, responsiveness, and minimal wobble for a polished typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force with a chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize exceptionally smooth keystrokes with a medium-heavy bottom out force and features like a novel CAP structure for enhanced stability and minimal wobble, then the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch would be more fitting for you. Consider your typing habits, preferences in sound and feel, and the overall typing experience you desire to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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