Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver both offer unique features for different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press and feathery in feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches from their budget-friendly G Pro line-up offer a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, providing lightning-fast responsiveness for gaming. With a bassy, buttery, and creamy sound profile, enhanced by vibrant RGB lighting and a frosted light diffuser, these switches add an exhilarating auditory element to your gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your individual preferences and needs. 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
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. However, where they differ is in their nylon bottom housings. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the G Pro 3.0 Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar experience in terms of sound quality.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver become more pronounced. The qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting how the sound and feel are perceived. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with the nylon bottom housing found in both switches. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when a key is released, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile with the polycarbonate top housing shared by both switches.
Ultimately, while the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver share similar polycarbonate top housings that provide a clear and resonant sound profile, the differences in their nylon bottom housings contribute to varying sound experiences. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a similar experience with its own nylon bottom housing. The choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of the overall typing sound and feel that each housing material provides.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it is evident that they have distinct differences. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Aqua will require less pressure to trigger a keystroke compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Additionally, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Silver is 50 grams, providing a slightly heavier typing experience when compared to the Aqua, for which the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter key press may lean towards the Aqua, as it would allow for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find the G Pro 3.0 Silver to be more suitable due to its heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight of key presses.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, the Aqua has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's 3.4 mm. The Aqua provides a more traditional depth when pressing down on a key, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a shallower feel. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Silver with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Aqua. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 chirpy and clacky sound signature, offering a distinctive auditory experience with a light and snappy feel during key presses. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch provides a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, enhancing the gaming atmosphere with a deep and rich tone. While the Aqua switch focuses on a lighter and more distinct sound, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a more immersive and dynamic auditory feedback, catering to different preferences based on sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is favored for its easy-to-press and feathery touch, providing a gentle resistance and light actuation force for effortless typing and reduced finger fatigue. In comparison, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Both switches aim to enhance the typing or gaming experience by providing comfortable and responsive key presses, catering to individuals who prefer a softer or smoother touch.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy sound and easy-to-press feel, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a lighter touch and distinct auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch provides a more immersive sound experience with a focus on bassy and thocky tones, coupled with a buttery and creamy feel for smooth and effortless typing. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer quality options for users, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound signature and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, you should consider their unique features and characteristics. If you prefer a super light actuation force of 37g with a distinct chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch is the way to go. It offers a unique typing experience for those who like a lighter touch. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bottom out force of 50g and want lightning-fast responsiveness with a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is the ideal choice. It provides exceptional gaming performance at a budget-friendly price point, coupled with vibrant RGB lighting and an exhilarating auditory experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing/gaming experience.
Mentioned in this article
