Dareu Aqua vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Gold Pink both stand out for their unique characteristics. The Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink also features a 37g actuation force, offering a light and lively typing experience with a satisfying level of feedback. While the Aqua switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', the Gold Pink switch is labeled as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Both switches are ideal for fast typing and gaming, but each offers a slightly different typing 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and TTC Gold Pink both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, despite using the same material for the top housing, the two switches may still exhibit subtle differences in sound due to variations in design and construction.
In contrast, the Aqua and Gold Pink feature nylon bottom housings, which produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound produced by polycarbonate. While the top housing may have a more pronounced effect on key release sound, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and overall typing experience.
Overall, the Aqua and Gold Pink offer a combination of different housing materials that impact the sound and feel of the switches. While both switches share the same top housing material in polycarbonate, the choice of nylon for the bottom housing sets them apart in terms of sound profile. Whether you prefer a crisper sound with polycarbonate or a fuller sound with nylon, each switch offers a unique typing experience based on its housing materials.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch and TTC Gold Pink linear switch both have the same actuation force of 37 grams, meaning they will provide a similar level of sensitivity when typing or gaming. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Gold Pink switch is lighter with a force of 45 grams compared to the Aqua switch, for which this information is not available. The weight of a switch is important to consider as it can affect typing speed and comfort. Some users may prefer the lighter Gold Pink switch for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier Aqua switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Users can expect consistent feedback and key press feel with either switch. With both switches having an identical travel distance, users can expect a similar typing experience whether they opt for the Dareu Aqua or the TTC Gold Pink linear switch.
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 Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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, providing a distinct auditory experience for users. The chirpy characteristic adds a subtle squeak, while the clacky feature produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, enhancing the overall typing feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors provided, but it is noted to offer a satisfying level of feedback with a clacky sound. The sound produced by both switches is also influenced by external factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used, ultimately shaping the overall auditory experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feathery feel of the Aqua switch further contributes to a comfortable typing experience, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch provides a buttery typing sensation, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The mild and feathery qualities of the Gold Pink switch contribute to a gentle typing feel, suitable for various usage scenarios including gaming, school, or work. The subtle and polished characteristics of the Gold Pink switch ensure a refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and TTC Gold Pink linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua switch stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound signatures and easy-to-press, feathery feel, the Gold Pink switch delivers a light and lively typing experience with a focus on buttery, mild, and polished sensations. Depending on personal preferences and typing requirements, users can choose between the distinctive auditory and tactile experiences offered by these two switches to enhance their typing and gaming activities. Additionally, both switches provide a light 37g actuation force, ensuring a consistent typing experience with minimal effort required. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation force and overall typing comfort when using either the Dareu Aqua or TTC Gold Pink linear switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a super light switch with a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, as well as an easy-to-press and feathery feel, you should choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch. On the other hand, if you value a fast and effortless typing experience with a light and lively feel, along with a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, or polished sound and feel, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice between the Dareu Aqua and TTC Gold Pink will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter touch and distinctive sound signature or a comprehensive typing experience with various qualities.
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