Dareu Aqua vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and KTT Darling linear switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, providing an easy-to-press experience with a chirpy and clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the KTT Darling showcases a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a pronounced bounciness and high-pitched sound upon bottoming out. While the Aqua appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch, the Darling offers a more tactile and auditory feedback 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Both the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Darling feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. However, the differences in the bottom housings of the two switches provide a contrasting sound experience. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Darling's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience, allowing for a deeper sound while absorbing more noise compared to other harder plastics.
While both switches share the same housing materials in their top and bottom portions, the impact of these materials will be differently felt depending on which part of the switch is being interacted with. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become more apparent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press. This means that with the Aqua, users can expect a more muted and softer bottom-out sound due to the nylon bottom housing, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Darling may produce a clearer and more resonant sound when the key is released. Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housings of both switches allows for a unique sound profile that is distinct to each model, providing a variety of typing experiences for users to choose from.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the KTT Darling linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua is lighter in actuation force at 37 grams compared to the Darling at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Darling at 53 grams is higher than the Aqua, which has an unknown bottom out force. The Aqua provides a lighter touch for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, while the Darling offers a slightly heavier push for a more substantial feel while typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dareu Aqua, while those who prefer a slightly heavier push may opt for the KTT Darling, resulting in distinct typing experiences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. With a 0.5 mm difference, the Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Darling. The Aqua's 4.0mm travel distance offers a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which may be preferred by some users for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Darling's 3.5mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it potentially more responsive and preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer a comfortable travel distance, but the Aqua provides a slightly longer one for those seeking a deeper keystroke feel.
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 KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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, adding a touch of distinctiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the KTT Darling linear switch produces a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, providing a mix of tactile and auditory feedback that is engaging and lively. If you prefer a light and chirpy sound, the Aqua would be the way to go, while the Darling offers a more substantial and resonant sound profile.
As for feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch boasts an easy-to-press and feathery touch due to its super light 37g actuation force. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort by reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the KTT Darling linear switch offers a bouncy sensation, providing a springy responsiveness to each keystroke that adds a lively feel to typing. If you prefer a switch that requires minimal force but still offers a lively bounce, the Aqua would be the ideal choice, while the Darling provides a more substantial and springy feel.
Both the Dareu Aqua and KTT Darling linear switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua excels in providing a light and chirpy sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch during typing. On the other hand, the Darling delivers a resonant and high-pitched sound with a bouncy feel, offering a more substantial and springy typing experience. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, providing users with a unique typing experience based on their individual preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lighter, chirpy typing experience or a more substantial, bouncy feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, a typing sensation that is chewy and substantial, and a pronounced bounciness with a resonant, high-pitched sound, then the KTT Darling linear switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Darling offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
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