Dareu Aqua vs. Dareu Holly
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Holly switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Holly offer unique experiences for users. The Aqua, a linear switch, is beloved for its super light 37g actuation force, creating a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press and feels feathery. On the other hand, the Holly, a tactile switch, features a medium 50g actuation force and a sound signature that blends chirpy and clacky elements, providing a more balanced and distinctive typing experience. Each switch caters to different preferences, with the Aqua offering a lighter touch and the Holly providing a more neutral feel. 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
50g
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Holly, it is evident that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing also allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switches. However, while the top housings are the same, the bottom housings differ between the two switches. The Aqua utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Holly also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Despite having different bottom housings, the overall sound profile of the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Holly will be a blend of the qualities brought by both the top and bottom housing materials. The impact of the bottom housing will be more pronounced when bottoming out a key, affecting the sound and feel of the switch at that moment. In contrast, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key, contributing to the overall typing experience. Both switches leverage the unique characteristics of their housing materials to create distinct typing experiences, with the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing providing a clearer and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the sound profile.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua and Dareu Holly share similarities in their housing materials, particularly in the polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharp and crisp sound profile suitable for RGB lighting. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches enhances the typing experience by creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. While differences in the bottom housing materials may slightly impact the overall sound profile, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials of these switches ultimately creates a unique and satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, it is evident that there is a difference in actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, compared to the Holly which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is difficult to determine how they compare in that aspect. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua would be the better choice, as it requires less force to actuate. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Holly would be more suitable due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for typing feel and force required.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, making them equally responsive to key presses. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. The travel distance of 4mm for both switches provides a satisfying feedback for users while typing, ensuring a smooth and comfortable typing experience. This similarity in travel distance showcases the attention to detail and quality in both switches, making them reliable options for individuals looking for a consistent typing experience.
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 Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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, both the Aqua and the Holly switches offer a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing distinct sound signatures that set them apart from other switches. The Aqua switch, with its super light actuation force of 37g, produces a chirpy and clacky sound that is crisp and percussive, appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Holly switch, with a medium actuation force of 50g, also delivers a chirpy and clacky sound but offers a more balanced and versatile typing experience. The sound produced by both switches can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Aqua switch is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, providing a gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force not only makes typing effortless and comfortable but also reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Holly switch's feel is unknown, but based on its medium actuation force and sound characteristics, users can expect a tactile and responsive typing experience that strikes a balance between comfort and feedback.
In conclusion, whether you opt for the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the Dareu Holly tactile switch, you can expect a unique and distinctive typing experience. The Aqua switch stands out for its super light actuation force and chirpy-clacky sound signature, catering to those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Holly switch offers a versatile typing experience with a more balanced sound profile. It is essential to consider your preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force when choosing between these two switches to ensure you get the best mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Dareu Holly tactile switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a super light actuation force of 37g and enjoy a chirpy and clacky sound signature, then the Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force of 50g and still desire a unique sound profile combining chirpy and clacky elements, then the Holly switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound characteristics.
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