Dareu Aqua vs. TTC Gold Silver

Overview

When comparing the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Gold Silver mechanical keyboard switches, the main differences lie in their actuation force and sound signature. The Dareu Aqua boasts a super light 37g actuation force, delivering a chirpy and clacky sound that caters to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver is known for its rapid responsiveness and shortened travel, resulting in a solid bottom-out with each keystroke and a resonant sound that emphasizes swift action. While the Aqua offers an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Gold Silver provides a polished, thocky, and low-pitched typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Aqua Linear

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Dareu Aqua and TTC Gold Silver feature a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing, as it not only enhances the sound profile but also allows for colorful lighting effects.

On the other hand, the Aqua and Gold Silver differ in their bottom housing material, with the Aqua utilizing a nylon bottom housing while the Gold Silver also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder materials. This results in a duller and rounder sound that adds a unique touch to the typing experience. Despite the difference in bottom housing, both switches share the qualities that nylon brings to the sound profile, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.

The split between the top and bottom housing materials in these switches showcases the importance of each component in creating the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. By combining polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials, the Dareu Aqua and TTC Gold Silver offer a balanced typing experience with a variety of sound profiles to cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller tone, these switches provide a customizable typing experience for enthusiasts.

Weight

The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, which has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. However, both switches have unknown bottom out forces, so it is unclear which one requires more force to fully press down. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter actuation force may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while a heavier actuation force can provide a more substantial typing experience. In this case, if the bottom out forces are similar for both switches, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall typing experience.

Travel distance

The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Gold Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Gold Silver switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the Aqua switch. The 0.5 mm difference may not seem like much, but it can result in a noticeable variation in keypress feel and response time. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may lean towards the Gold Silver switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress experience may opt for the Aqua switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Both switches offer a different feel and experience, catering to varying preferences among keyboard users.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch provides a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, giving a distinct auditory experience characterized by a playful squeakiness and sharp, snappy tones. On the other hand, the TTC Gold Silver linear switch produces a resonant thocky sound with low-pitched undertones, offering a deep and rich sound profile that exudes a sense of satisfaction with each keystroke. While the Aqua leans towards a lighter and more distinctive sound, the Gold Silver presents a more solid and impactful auditory feedback, catering to different preferences in sound profiles.

Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is praised for its super light 37g actuation force, offering an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue and enhances typing efficiency. In contrast, the TTC Gold Silver switch boasts a polished and silky feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Gold Silver also offers a mild and subtle typing sensation, striking a balance between gentle resistance and light actuation force, making it suitable for a wide range of users. These differences in tactile feedback cater to varying preferences in typing feel, whether it be light and effortless or smooth and refined.

Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Aqua excels in providing a playful and light auditory experience paired with an effortless typing sensation, while the Gold Silver focuses on a solid and satisfying auditory feedback coupled with a smooth and refined typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches provide unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience for newcomers looking to explore the world of mechanical keyboard switches. Ultimately, whether you choose the Aqua or the Gold Silver, you can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to your individual preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Gold Silver linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a super light actuation force and enjoy a chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Dareu Aqua switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a decisive bottom-out feel, and a smooth keystroke journey with a thocky, low-pitched, or neutral sound profile, the TTC Gold Silver switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, think about what aspects of typing experience you prioritize the most and select the switch that aligns best with your preferences.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Aqua Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

TTC Gold Silver Linear

$6.11

$2.90 per 10

Learn more