Dareu Aqua vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it becomes clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who enjoy a lighter touch. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White offers a poppy linear switch with a dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to its self-lubricating material. While the Aqua is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', the Kang White is described as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral'. Each switch has its own strengths and advantages, but ultimately the choice between them will depend on personal preferences. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Kang White utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the visual appeal of the switches. In terms of sound output, both switches will provide similar results due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
On the other hand, the Aqua and Kang White differ in their choice of material for the bottom housing, with the Aqua using nylon and the Kang White also incorporating nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as its softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite this difference in material for the bottom housing, both switches will likely provide a similar typing experience given their shared use of nylon in this component.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it's important to note that each material contributes different qualities to the typing experience. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that users can expect a nuanced typing experience from both the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Kang White, as the properties of their top and bottom housing materials work together to create a unique sound profile for each switch.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams compared to the Kang White's 45 grams. Both switches do not provide information on the bottom out force, making it difficult to directly compare that aspect. The Aqua switch would likely offer a lighter typing experience, suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Kang White switch with its higher actuation force may appeal to users seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force, with the Aqua being the lighter option and the Kang White potentially offering a heavier touch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is identical. As a result, users can expect to experience similar keypress sensations and feedback when using either switch. Overall, both the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Kang White linear switches offer the same travel distance, providing consistent performance and typing experience for users.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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 offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky tones, giving it a distinctive and lively sound profile. The chirpy sound adds a playful element, while the clacky sound provides a sharp and crisp auditory feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch is noted for its low-pitched sound with a mellow tone, offering a more subdued and relaxing typing experience. The self-lubricating material of the Kang White switch also contributes to a smooth typing sound, further enhancing the overall auditory experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the energetic sound of the Aqua or the calming sound of the Kang White.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal effort to activate, making it effortless and comfortable for extended typing sessions. The feathery feel of the Aqua switch adds to its light and responsive typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and promoting a smooth typing flow. On the other hand, information about the feel of the KTT Kang White linear switch is currently unavailable, so it's unclear how it compares to the feather-light feel of the Aqua switch.
In conclusion, for those who prioritize a light and energetic typing experience with distinctive sound characteristics, the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be an excellent choice. However, if a more subdued and smooth typing experience is preferred, the KTT Kang White linear switch with its low-pitched sound and self-lubricating material may offer a more relaxed typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to different preferences, and the choice between the two would depend on individual typing preferences and priorities.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, then the Dareu Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a medium bottom out force, a poppy linear typing sound, and unparalleled smoothness due to self-lubricating material, the KTT Kang White switch would be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you are looking for, whether it is a light and distinct feel with the Aqua or a smooth and satisfying typing sound with the Kang White.
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