Dareu Aqua vs. KTT Laurel
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Laurel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Laurel mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct features that set them apart. The Dareu Aqua is a linear switch known for its super light 37g actuation force, offering a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Laurel is a medium-light linear switch with a full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, providing a balance of responsiveness and comfort. The Laurel also offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile. While the Aqua is easy-to-press and feathery, the Laurel is snappy and low-pitched. 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22m spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Laurel, we see that the Aqua utilizes a polycarbonate top housing while the Laurel features a POM top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while POM produces a deeper and more muted sound. This means that the Aqua may offer a more crisp and resonant typing experience compared to the Laurel, which provides a more pleasing and unique sound with deeper tones. Both materials have their own distinct qualities, catering to different preferences in sound profile.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Aqua incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Laurel utilizes a POM bottom housing. Nylon is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, POM also provides a deeper and more muted sound profile, offering a similar typing experience to that of the Aqua. Both materials bring unique qualities to the switches, enhancing the overall sound and feel of the typing experience.
When examining how the top and bottom housings impact the overall sound and feel of the switch, it becomes clear that the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Laurel offer slightly different typing experiences. The split between the top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound profile when pressing down on a key and when letting go. The Aqua's polycarbonate and nylon combination provides a sharper and crisper sound overall, while the Laurel's POM combination offers a deeper and more muted typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and cater to different preferences in sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the KTT Laurel linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Laurel is the heavier choice with an actuation force of 43 grams. The bottom out force of the Aqua is not specified, while the Laurel has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating that it requires more pressure to fully press down. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing as much fatigue. In contrast, the Laurel switch would be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a heavier touch when pressing the keys. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience offered by each switch, catering to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Dareu Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the KTT Laurel. In terms of typing or gaming experience, this means that the Aqua switch will have a slightly deeper key press feel compared to the Laurel switch. However, both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Aqua being on the longer side and the Laurel being on the shorter side. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, creating a distinctive auditory experience. The KTT Laurel linear switch, on the other hand, provides a subtly low-pitched sound profile, offering a more mellow and bass-heavy tone. Depending on personal preference, individuals may find the Aqua's chirpy and clacky sounds more appealing for a lively typing experience, while others may prefer the calming low-pitched sound of the Laurel switch.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua switch is renowned for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a comfortable typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. On the contrary, the KTT Laurel switch is described as snappy, offering a super responsive feel that enhances the typing experience by making it feel more lively. The choice between the light and effortless feel of the Aqua switch and the responsive and dynamic feel of the Laurel switch ultimately depends on the individual's typing style and preferences.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Laurel linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua switch provides a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sounds along with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Laurel switch offers a subtly low-pitched sound profile and a snappy typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, so selecting the ideal switch comes down to personal choice and the desired typing experience. Whether opting for the Aqua or Laurel switch, users can expect a satisfactory typing experience that aligns with their individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a super light linear switch with a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua linear switch with its 37g actuation force is the way to go. It offers an easy-to-press and feathery feel, making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a subtly low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Laurel linear switch with its 50g bottom out force is a great choice. It provides a snappy feel, adding a responsive touch to your typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Dareu Aqua and KTT Laurel switches will depend on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose wisely based on what suits your typing style and preferences best.
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