Dareu Aqua vs. TTC Gold Brown Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Gold Brown Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch offer unique and distinct experiences. The Dareu Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro offers a subtle tactile bump that allows typists to immerse themselves in their tasks without being distracted by the noise of each keystroke. While the Aqua is known for its easy-to-press feel and distinct sound, the Gold Brown Pro offers a polished and low-pitched typing experience with minimal distraction. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
NPI
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and TTC Gold Brown Pro feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches designed to utilize RGB lighting. While both switches share the same top housing material, the nuances in sound and feel may be influenced by the design and construction of the switches themselves.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Dareu Aqua and TTC Gold Brown Pro utilize nylon for a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches made with this material. Due to the properties of nylon, the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both the Aqua and Gold Brown Pro switches.
The combination of different housing materials in the Dareu Aqua and TTC Gold Brown Pro allows for a balance in sound and feel when typing. The split between the top and bottom housings means that each material brings its own unique qualities to the overall typing experience. While the top housing influences the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed. Ultimately, whether it's the Aqua or Gold Brown Pro, users can expect a well-rounded typing experience with a mix of sharpness, crispness, depth, and resilience in sound profile.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch which has a higher actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Aqua switch will require less force to register a key press, making it easier on the fingers for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is unclear how much force is required to press the key all the way down. In terms of weight, the Aqua switch would be preferred by those who prefer a lighter feel, while the Gold Brown Pro switch would be ideal for those who like a stronger push feel for typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches provide a traditional typing experience, with the Aqua offering a slightly deeper keypress compared to the Gold Brown Pro. Gamers may prefer the Aqua for its slightly longer travel distance, which can provide a more satisfying feedback during intense gaming sessions. However, those looking for a more responsive typing experience may opt for the Gold Brown Pro due to its slightly shorter travel distance. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its chirpy and clacky sound profile, offering a unique auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is characterized by its thocky, low-pitched, and neutral sound profile, providing a deeper and more subdued typing sound. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that can cater to different preferences, whether you prefer a lighter and more pronounced sound like the Aqua or a quieter and mellower sound like the Gold Brown Pro.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is described as easy-to-press and feathery, providing a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is known for its polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a subtle tactile feedback for enhanced typing accuracy. While the Aqua switch prioritizes a light actuation force for ease of use, the Gold Brown Pro switch focuses on providing a sophisticated feel with a gentle tactile bump for precise typing control.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, it is evident that each switch offers a unique typing experience tailored to different preferences. The Aqua switch stands out with its light actuation force and chirpy, clacky sound profile, ideal for those seeking a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Gold Brown Pro switch appeals to users looking for a subtle and refined typing feel with a subdued sound signature. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on whether you prioritize a light touch and distinctive sound like the Aqua or prefer a more sophisticated and understated typing experience like the Gold Brown Pro. Whether you choose the Aqua or the Gold Brown Pro, you can expect to achieve satisfying and similar results in terms of typing performance and overall user experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch, your decision should be based on your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a super light actuation force and a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound, the Dareu Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a subtle tactile feedback with a subdued sound profile that allows you to stay focused on your tasks without distractions, the TTC Gold Brown Pro switch is the perfect option. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize a light and unique typing feel or a smooth and polished typing experience.
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