Dareu Aqua vs. HMX KD200

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the HMX KD200 are two linear options that cater to different user preferences, each offering a unique typing experience. The Dareu Aqua is particularly favored for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, allowing for effortless key presses that produce a chirpy and clacky sound signature—ideal for those who appreciate a gentler touch during typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the HMX KD200 is recognized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, designed for users wanting a more pronounced auditory feedback and tactile experience with every keystroke. While both switches are linear, which typically means they provide smooth key presses without any tactile bump, their sound profiles and actuation forces set them apart, making the choice largely dependent on personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Aqua Linear

HMX KD200 Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Dareu Aqua and the HMX KD200, the most significant difference lies in their top housing materials. The Aqua utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate allows for a more resonant sound when typing, making it a favorable choice for users who prefer a brighter auditory feedback. In contrast, the KD200 employs nylon for its top housing, a material recognized for yielding a deeper and fuller sound profile. This distinction is due to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller, more rounded auditory experience. Thus, while both switches deliver compelling sound profiles, they cater to different user preferences based on the material composition of their top housings.

On the flip side, both the Dareu Aqua and the HMX KD200 share the same bottom housing material—nylon. This shared characteristic means that both switches will possess similar sound properties when the key is bottomed out. The deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom housing is consistent across both models. This commonality ensures that, despite differences in the top housing materials, users will experience a similar auditory signature when pressing down on the keys. The nylon housing absorbs sound for both switches, contributing to a more muted overall sound during key presses and thus delivering a smooth typing experience.

Ultimately, the differing top housing materials of the Aqua and the KD200 create distinctive sound profiles, while their shared nylon bottom housing introduces a harmonizing effect on the overall typing experience. For those who appreciate the clear and crisp sound offered by the Aqua's polycarbonate top, the transition to a more subdued and softer sound profile with the KD200's nylon top may be substantial. However, since both utilize nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent bottom-out feeling and sound across both switches, unifying their typing experience despite their distinct top housing characteristics. This duality allows users to choose a switch more aligned with their preferences while still enjoying some level of consistency in acoustics and tactile feedback.

Weight

The Dareu Aqua linear switch features an actuation force of 37 grams, while the HMX KD200 linear switch requires a higher actuation force of 45 grams. The Aqua switch does not have a specified bottom out force, making direct comparisons difficult; however, the KD200's bottom out force is recorded at 50 grams. This indicates that the Aqua may offer a lighter typing experience overall, which is beneficial for prolonged use during work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, those who prefer a more robust tactile experience may gravitate towards the heavier KD200 switch due to its stronger actuation force and definitive bottom out pressure. Ultimately, the Aqua's lighter feel may lead to a different typing experience, appealing to users seeking ease and comfort, while the KD200 may satisfy those looking for more substantial feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Aqua features a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered traditional and offers a more pronounced tactile experience. On the other hand, the KD200 has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, aligning with the recent trend toward shorter distances that cater to gamers seeking faster response times. As a result, users who prefer a more responsive feel might opt for the KD200, while those who appreciate a deeper key press may find the Aqua more appealing. Thus, the Aqua switch is the longer option, providing a more substantial travel distance, while the KD200 offers a shorter, snappier activation.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound profiles of the Dareu Aqua and the HMX KD200 linear switches, the Aqua is notable for its unique auditory character. It features a chirpy and clacky sound signature, offering a blend that resonates with a playful, bright timbre. This combination creates a lively typing experience that many users find enjoyable, particularly for those who appreciate an engaging acoustic feedback while typing. The chirpy component contributes a slight squeak, adding charm to the keyboard's auditory landscape, while the clacky aspect produces crisp, percussive tones upon keystrokes. On the other hand, while the KD200 is recognized as the clackiest in the HMX Film switch family, precise qualitative details about its sound characteristics remain unspecified. Therefore, while it can be inferred that it leans toward a pronounced clacky sound, it lacks the distinctive chirp of the Aqua.

In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua switches excel with their super light actuation force of only 37g, creating an effortlessly easy-to-press experience. This means that users can type with minimal resistance, which not only enhances comfort during extended sessions but also significantly reduces finger fatigue, making it a top choice for extensive gaming or work. The Aqua’s feathery touch further emphasizes its lightweight and responsive nature, allowing for swift keystrokes without straining the fingers. Conversely, specific qualitative information regarding the feel of the KD200 switch is currently unknown. Therefore, it’s difficult to draw direct comparisons in tactile experience, but if its classification leans toward a different kind of lightweight feel, it might offer a varied yet enjoyable typing sensation.

In conclusion, while both the Dareu Aqua and HMX KD200 offer notable sound and feel characteristics, the Aqua's distinctive chirpy and clacky sound profile pairs with its incredibly light actuation force, creating a unique and responsive typing experience that is bewitchingly enjoyable. The KD200's sonic qualities, leaning towards a clacky signature, suggest a different but potentially engaging auditory experience, although its tactile feedback is less documented. This suggests that while you'll enjoy a fulfilling result with either switch, the Aqua particularly shines in providing a lively and comfortable typing experience compared to the more ambiguous qualities of the KD200.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX KD200 linear switch boils down to your personal preferences and intended usage. If you prefer a switch that provides a super light actuation force of 37g, allowing for effortless typing and gaming, the Aqua is an excellent choice. Its unique chirpy and clacky sound signature can add a distinctive auditory experience to your typing, making it suitable for both everyday work and long gaming sessions where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a switch that exhibits a pronounced clacking sound, the KD200 would be more appropriate as it is known for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family. This switch offers a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 50g, which could provide a more tactile and pronounced response that some users find satisfying, especially in environments where affirmative key presses are preferred. In conclusion, consider the Aqua for its light feel and unique sound if you want comfort and quick key presses, whereas choose the KD200 for its pronounced auditory feedback and a firmer typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Aqua Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

HMX KD200 Linear

$3.50

$3.29 per 10

Learn more