Dareu Aqua vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and Dareu Dream offer two unique options for users seeking a linear switch. The Dareu Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a distinctive blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switches offer a very light linear option at an attractive price point, making them a top choice for enthusiasts looking for a balance of quality and affordability. While the Aqua is praised for its feathery feel and unique sound, the Dream is favored for its easy-to-press nature and modest price. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial 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
The housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Dream have some similarities and differences. Both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, providing a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the top housing's translucency makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. On the other hand, the Aqua and Dream keyboards differ in their bottom housing material. The Aqua utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Dream also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While both the Aqua and the Dream keyboards feature polycarbonate top housing that provides similar sound characteristics, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing creates a softer, fuller sound profile, adding a different dimension to the overall typing experience. Conversely, the Dream's nylon bottom housing also offers a similar sound profile, maintaining consistency across both keyboards. Despite their bottom housing differences, both keyboards aim to enhance the typing experience through their housing materials, catering to users who value sound quality and tactile feedback. Whether it's the Aqua's deeper sound or the Dream's rounder sound, both keyboards offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
The split in qualities between the top and bottom housing of the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Dream impacts the overall typing experience. The bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, contributing to the overall tactile feedback of the keyboard. On the other hand, the top housing material has a more significant impact on the sound produced when releasing a key, further enhancing the overall typing experience. By utilizing different materials for their top and bottom housing, both keyboards are able to provide a well-rounded typing experience that caters to different preferences, whether it be a sharper sound profile from the top housing or a fuller sound profile from the bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we can see that the Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dream's 40 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is hard to determine the heavier switch in this aspect. The lighter actuation force of the Aqua may make it more suitable for users who prefer a light typing experience, ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Dream's slightly heavier actuation force may provide a firmer and more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a bit more resistance. Overall, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua and Dareu Dream linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. This can result in a similar typing experience and feel for users who prefer a shorter travel distance compared to other types of switches.Overall, both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with a moderate travel distance that can cater to various typing preferences.
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 Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 blend of chirpy and clacky sounds, giving it a distinctive auditory experience. The chirpy sound adds a little squeak to the switch, setting it apart from others, while the clacky sound is sharp and snappy, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch also produces a clacky sound, which is characterized by its sharp, snappy, and percussive nature. Overall, both switches offer a similar clacky sound profile, providing users with a consistent auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is easy-to-press and feathery, offering a light actuation force of 37g that requires minimal force to activate. This light touch enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Dareu Dream linear switch is also easy-to-press, providing gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. Additionally, the Dream switch is described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. While the Aqua switch is feathery, the Dream switch falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, providing users with a comfortable typing feel.
Overall, both the Dareu Aqua and Dream linear switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound, with a clacky sound profile, and feel, with an easy-to-press nature. While the Aqua stands out with its chirpy sound and feathery feel, the Dream provides a budget-friendly option with a mild feel. Depending on personal preferences and budget considerations, users can expect a consistent typing experience with either switch choice.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. Choose the Dareu Aqua if you prefer a super light 37g actuation force, chirpy and clacky sound signature, and an easy-to-press and feathery feel. On the other hand, opt for the Dareu Dream if you're looking for a budget-friendly option with a light linear feel, clacky sound, and an easy-to-press and mild typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what best suits your typing style and preferences.
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