Dareu Aqua vs. HMX Hibiscus
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Hibiscus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Hibiscus linear switches present two compelling options, each catering to different preferences and typing experiences. The Aqua is renowned for its super light 37g actuation force, making it an appealing choice for users who prefer a featherlight touch accompanied by a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature. Its easy-to-press nature and vibrant auditory feedback make it an excellent option for those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX Hibiscus excels in delivering unparalleled smoothness, paired with an actuation force that boasts extraordinary responsiveness while maintaining a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound profile. These characteristics make it a prime choice for users who prioritize a seamless and engaging typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
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
T3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the HMX Hibiscus showcase distinct housing materials that significantly influence their acoustic profiles and overall user experience. The Aqua utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, renowned for its stiffness and translucency, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound. In contrast, the Hibiscus opts for a nylon top housing, delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs sound better. While both switches prioritize sound quality, the Aqua's ability to create a more resonant and crisp sound from its rigid top material substantially distinguishes it from the Hibiscus's more subdued auditory experience facilitated by nylon.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Aqua and the Hibiscus share a commonality: they are both fabricated from nylon. This choice of material leads to a similar auditory characteristic in both switches, providing that rich, rounded sound profile which is typical of nylon. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the keys are pressed fully down, thereby ensuring that regardless of the differences in the top housing, the user will still experience a familiar, deeper auditory response reflective of nylon's sound absorption properties. This alignment in bottom housing materials ensures that both switches will feel similar when bottomed out, presenting an engaging tactile experience.
Overall, the combination of materials in the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Hibiscus provides a compelling study in contrast. While the differences in their top housings create divergent sound profiles—with the Aqua delivering clarity and resonant highs and the Hibiscus offering a more rounded and muted effect—their shared nylon bottom housing creates a unifying auditory experience. Users can expect a harmonious blend of characteristics, regardless of their preference for the sharper tones from the Aqua or the deeper resonance from the Hibiscus, as both styles still deliver that satisfying low-end response thanks to their nylon construction.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces can be observed. The Aqua switch features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a more effortless typing experience, suitable for prolonged use during work or gaming. In contrast, the Hibiscus switch requires a heavier actuation force of 42 grams, contributing to a more substantial typing feel that some users may find satisfying. However, the bottom out force of the Aqua switch is unavailable, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in this regard. The Hibiscus, on the other hand, has a defined bottom out force of 48 grams, indicating a firmer end feel when the switch is fully pressed down. Overall, the Aqua switch is lighter in actuation force, while the Hibiscus provides a heavier and more defined tactile experience, appealing to different typing preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Hibiscus linear switch, it is clear that the Aqua has a longer travel distance at 4 mm, while the Hibiscus measures at 3.5 mm. This difference results in a distinct feel when pressing down on the keys; the Aqua offers a more substantial depth, which some users may find more satisfying, while the Hibiscus, with its shorter 3.5 mm travel, caters to those who prefer quicker response times for gaming or fast typing. For people who enjoy a hearty keypress, the Aqua would be the better choice, whereas the Hibiscus might appeal to those who appreciate a more immediate actuation. Thus, the Aqua is the switch with the longer travel distance, and the Hibiscus is shorter.
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 Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus 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
The Dareu Aqua linear switch produces a distinct sound characterized by its chirpy and clacky tones. The chirpy quality adds a unique squeak, setting it apart from many other switches, while the clacky aspect delivers a sharp and snappy response, creating a crisp and bright auditory experience. This combination results in a lively sound profile that can energize your typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, details on the HMX Hibiscus switch's sound signature remain unknown, but it can be inferred that it, too, offers a unique auditory quality, especially given its reputation for a distinctive typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua switch provides an exceptionally lightweight typing experience with an actuation force of only 37g. It is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance that minimizes fatigue during prolonged use. This is further enhanced by its feathery feel, where the minimal exertion required helps maintain comfort, making it suitable for various activities, from gaming to prolonged typing sessions. Unfortunately, the specific feel characteristics of the HMX Hibiscus switch are not available, leaving an open question about how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and resistance.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Aqua linear switch is well-documented for its chirpy and clacky sound signature and its exceptionally light and comfortable feel that minimizes finger fatigue, details about the HMX Hibiscus remain vague. It's clear that users opting for the Aqua can expect a lively auditory experience alongside a feather-light typing touch. Without specific information about the Hibiscus, it's challenging to make a direct comparison, but the unique sound and feel of the Aqua provide a compelling choice for newcomers.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Hibiscus linear switches ultimately depends on your individual preferences and typing habits. If you favor a super light touch and enjoy a unique auditory experience characterized by a chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua is an excellent option for you. Its low actuation force of 37 grams makes it ideal for those who prioritize speed and comfort, especially if you're engaged in extensive typing or gaming sessions where minimal finger strain is paramount. On the other hand, if you seek a switch that balances smoothness with a crisp sound profile, the HMX Hibiscus should be your go-to. At a light bottom out force of 48 grams, it offers a satisfying typing experience with its distinctive clack, which appeals to those who appreciate both auditory feedback and a slightly more substantial feel. Thus, your choice should align with your specific needs: lean towards the Aqua for feather-light responsiveness and unique sound, or choose the Hibiscus for its smooth action and satisfying acoustics.
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