Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offer distinct characteristics to suit different preferences. The Aqua's super light 37g actuation force and chirpy, clacky sound signature make it a unique choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the EF Grayish switches are crafted with custom molds and offer a medium weight, neutral sound signature, making it a stellar default tactile option at an approachable price point. Both switches have their own set of qualities that appeal to different users, 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
59g
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
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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the differentiation comes with their bottom housing. The Aqua features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and producing a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the EverFree Grayish also uses a nylon bottom housing, offering similar qualities in sound profile and feel when typing.
The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. When pressing down on the Aqua switch, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing come into play, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, releasing a key on the Aqua switch will emphasize the sound profile influenced by the polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the EverFree Grayish showcases the same split qualities between its nylon bottom housing and polycarbonate top housing, ensuring a well-rounded typing experience that balances the characteristics of each material to enhance both sound and feel.
While the Dareu Aqua and Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish may share similarities in their top housing material of polycarbonate, the differentiation in their bottom housing material of nylon sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Aqua's softer nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, offering a more rounded typing experience, whereas the EverFree Grayish follows suit with its own nylon bottom housing. Both switches highlight the importance of housing materials in producing distinct sound profiles and emphasizing the overall feel of typing, making them suitable choices for those seeking a specific auditory and tactile typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it becomes clear that the Aqua is the lighter of the two with an actuation force of 37 grams compared to the EF Grayish's 59 grams. The bottom out force for both switches is unknown, but it is likely that the EF Grayish has a higher bottom out force due to its higher actuation force. The Aqua's lighter actuation force makes it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where lighter key presses are preferred. In contrast, the EF Grayish's heavier actuation force provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, selecting between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on whether a lighter or heavier force is desired for typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, it is evident that the Aqua has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the EverFree Grayish's 3.4 mm. The Aqua's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper keypress experience, which some users might prefer for a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the EverFree Grayish's shorter 3.4 mm travel distance offers a quicker response time, making it popular among gamers seeking faster input feedback. Overall, the choice between these two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference for either a longer, more deliberate keypress or a shorter, snappier 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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 mix of chirpy and clacky sounds, providing a distinctive auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. The chirpy sound adds a playful element, while the clacky sound brings a sharp and percussive quality to key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various environments and preferences. The moderate sound of the EF Grayish switch makes it a reliable choice for both beginners and advanced users alike, without being too intrusive in quieter settings.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is lauded for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force for key activation. This light and feathery feel make typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offers a stepped tactile sensation with a snappy response. The stepped feel adds a layer of tactility to the typing experience, providing users with a unique sensation of pre-travel and post-travel stages. The snappiness of the EF Grayish switch enhances responsiveness, contributing to a dynamic typing experience for users who prefer tactile feedback.
Considering the available information, it is evident that the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua switch excels in providing a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the EF Grayish switch presents a more neutral sound profile with a stepped tactile sensation and snappy response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, ensuring that users can find a suitable option based on their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, then the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight tactile option with a neutral sound profile and an approachable price point, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a lighter touch and distinctive sound or a medium weight tactile feel with a neutral sound profile. Choose wisely based on your typing preferences and enjoy the mechanical keyboard experience to the fullest.
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