Dareu Aqua vs. TTC Honey
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Honey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Honey mechanical keyboard switches, it is clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua is a linear switch known for its super light 37g actuation force, resulting in a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the TTC Honey provides a smooth and creamy typing experience with a deep and pleasant sound profile, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more subdued and buttery 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
42g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the Dareu Aqua and TTC Honey, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which generates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Aqua has a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Honey. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite their differences in bottom housing material, both the Aqua and the Honey have similar sound profiles in their top housings due to the shared use of polycarbonate. The impact of the bottom housing material is most noticeable when pressing down on a key, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Aqua's nylon bottom housing may offer a different typing experience compared to the Honey's polycarbonate bottom housing, both keyboards provide distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Aqua and TTC Honey comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Aqua's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing offers a mix of sharpness and depth in sound, giving a unique typing experience. In contrast, the Honey's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the housing provides a more uniform sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance. Both keyboards have their strengths and can cater to different preferences in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the TTC Honey linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are noticeable differences. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Honey's slightly heavier 42 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua's force is unknown while the Honey requires 50 grams, which is considered light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Aqua more appealing, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Honey with its slightly heavier actuation force. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on personal preferences, providing a range of options for different typing styles.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Honey linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Aqua switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. On the other hand, the Honey switch's shorter travel distance could appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Aqua being slightly longer than the Honey. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming 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 TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 stands out with its unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, creating a distinctive auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the TTC Honey switch offers a more subdued sound profile, providing a deep and pleasant typing experience that is more subtle in nature. Both switches offer different sound characteristics that cater to individual preferences, with the Aqua being more lively and distinct, while the Honey is more calming and pleasant.
Moving on to the feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light actuation force that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the contrary, the TTC Honey switch provides a creamy, frictionless, and buttery feel, allowing for a smooth and effortless typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers across the keys. Both switches offer a different tactile sensation, with the Aqua focusing on lightness and responsiveness, while the Honey emphasizes smoothness and fluidity in typing.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, it's clear that they offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. While the Aqua provides a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Honey offers a subdued sound profile with a creamy and buttery typing sensation. Depending on whether you prefer a more lively and light typing experience or a smoother and more subdued feel, you can choose between the Aqua and Honey switches to suit your individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide quality sound and feel characteristics that will enhance your overall typing experience, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Honey linear switch, you should choose the Dareu Aqua if you prefer a super light 37g actuation force and a chirpy and clacky sound signature. This switch is ideal for those who favor a lighter touch and enjoy a unique typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and creamy typing feel with a slightly heavier 50g bottom out force and a deep sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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