Dareu Aqua vs. HMX Gravel
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Gravel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and HMX Gravel present two enticing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The Dareu Aqua is celebrated for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, which strikes a captivating balance between a chirpy and clacky sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a lighter touch and a more playful auditory feedback. On the other hand, the HMX Gravel offers an exceptional smoothness and a refined typing sensation, also leaning towards a medium-light actuation force. This enhances responsiveness and promotes an effortless typing experience while providing a consistently smooth feel, ideal for users who prioritize comfort and fluidity in their keystrokes. Though both switches cater to a preference for linear feedback, each brings its unique flavor to the table. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that aligns perfectly with your typing style and preferences.
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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and HMX Gravel switches, it is noteworthy that both models utilize polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a distinct yet cohesive sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which allows for enhanced resonance. This attribute is especially beneficial for users who enjoy RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual aesthetics of the lighting effects. Since both switches share this material for their top housings, users can expect a similar high-pitched and clear sound from either model, making them suitable choices for those who prioritize audio clarity and a visually striking gaming or typing experience.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the Dareu Aqua and HMX Gravel utilize nylon, a material known for its ability to absorb sound due to its relatively softer nature. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, distinguished from the sharper tone produced by the polycarbonate top. As users interact with these switches, the nylon bottom housing will play a significant role in the overall sound and feel during typing, contributing a rounder bass without being overly harsh. Because the structure is consistent across both switches, users will also experience similar tactile feedback and sound depth with either model.
The combination of these materials in both switches means that while the Aqua and Gravel may present unique visual designs or branding, their underlying sound profiles are closely aligned. Overall, users can expect cohesive performance characteristics from both models due to their identical housing materials. The sharpness from the polycarbonate top and the fullness from the nylon bottom create a balanced auditory experience, ensuring that regardless of the choice between the Dareu Aqua or HMX Gravel, both provide satisfying and engaging feedback during usage.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, there’s a noticeable difference in their actuation forces. The Aqua requires a lighter actuation force of just 37 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch and longer typing sessions, whereas the Gravel demands a heftier 45 grams of force, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. In terms of bottom out force, the Gravel switch is quantifiable at 50 grams, while the Aqua lacks this specification, leaving its bottom out force unknown. Consequently, the Gravel not only requires more force to actuate but also has a well-defined bottom out force, making it the heavier option. In contrast, the Aqua switch’s lighter actuation force could provide a more relaxed typing experience for users who type for extended periods. Overall, users must decide between the lighter Aqua or the heavier Gravel based on their personal preferences for actuation feel and experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch, a distinct difference emerges. The Aqua switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it align with the more traditional depth that many users prefer for a fuller typing experience. In contrast, the Gravel switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, which appeals to gamers and those seeking quicker response times. While both switches offer their own benefits, with the Aqua providing a more substantial feel and the Gravel catering to a preference for rapid keystrokes, the Gravel's shorter travel distance allows for a more responsive typing experience. Overall, users will need to weigh their preference for depth against the need for speed when choosing between these two options.
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 HMX Gravel has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gravel for $2.99.
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 characterized by a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature. The chirpy aspect presents a slight squeak, while the clacky quality produces a sharp, bright, and percussive sound that many typists find engaging. This distinct audio profile adds a lively element to the typing experience, making it an appealing choice for users who enjoy auditory feedback. In contrast, the HMX Gravel switch does not have a specified sound profile, which means the auditory experience may not be as pronounced or defined. However, it's important to note that the overall sound can greatly depend on the keyboard's design, materials, and keycap choices.
In terms of feel, the Aqua switches excel with their lightweight actuation force of 37g, allowing for an easy and feathery typing experience. The gentle resistance makes key presses effortless, significantly reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions, whether for work, gaming, or school. The light touch can contribute to a smooth and comfortable experience overall. Similarly, while the HMX Gravel switch is noted to have a medium-light actuation force that leans towards the lighter side, its specific feel characteristics are not described. However, it is inferred that the responsiveness of the Gravel, combined with its smoothness, would still offer a comfortable typing experience, albeit potentially less distinct compared to the Aqua.
Overall, while both the Dareu Aqua and HMX Gravel linear switches aim to deliver a pleasant typing experience, they each bring unique qualities to the table. The Aqua’s light actuation force combined with its chirpy and clacky sounds and a feathery feel clearly delineates its character. Meanwhile, the Gravel’s smoothness and medium-light actuation suggest a more refined experience, although details about its sound quality remain unknown. Users looking for a lively auditory feedback might lean towards the Aqua, while those who prioritize a smooth and effortless typing motion may find the Gravel appealing, ultimately highlighting how both options cater to different preferences within the realm of mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Gravel linear switch ultimately comes down to your personal typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a lighter touch with a unique auditory experience, the Aqua is an ideal choice. Its remarkably low actuation force of 37 grams allows for effortless typing, making it especially appealing for long gaming sessions or extensive typing tasks where you want to minimize finger fatigue. The chirpy and clacky sound profile adds an engaging element, perfect for those who relish an audible feedback during their keystrokes. On the other hand, if you are seeking a smooth and refined typing feel without sacrificing responsiveness, the HMX Gravel is a great alternative. With its medium-light actuation force of 50 grams, it still offers an easy-to-press experience while providing a touch more resistance than the Aqua, which some typists prefer for better control. The Gravel’s emphasis on smoothness enhances the overall typing experience, making it suitable for both gaming and work environments. In essence, your choice between the two should reflect your priorities—whether you prioritize ultra-light touch and sound character with the Aqua or a smooth and slightly tactile experience with the Gravel.
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