Dareu Aqua vs. KTT Lightning
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Lightning switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Lightning mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch is known for its speed, making it ideal for situations where milliseconds can make a difference between winning or losing. The Lightning switch offers a slick typing feel with a clacky sound profile, further enhancing the overall typing experience. 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
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Lightning, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing aspect to the keyboards. With both keyboards utilizing polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when typing on these switches.
However, the key point of differentiation between the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Lightning lies in their nylon bottom housings. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Lightning's bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. As a result, users can expect a slightly different typing experience between the two keyboards, with the Aqua offering a more resonant and robust sound while the Lightning provides a softer and more subdued typing experience.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Lightning creates a unique typing experience for users. The split between the qualities of the two housing materials results in a balance between sharp, crisp sound from the top housing and a fuller, deeper sound from the bottom housing. Whether users prefer a more resonant typing experience with the Aqua or a softer typing experience with the Lightning, both keyboards offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences and typing styles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is clear that the Aqua is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams compared to the Lightning at 43 grams. However, the Lightning has a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force of the Aqua is unknown. This means that the Lightning switch requires a heavier force to fully press down compared to the Aqua. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Dareu Aqua for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the KTT Lightning for its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for the user, with lighter forces allowing for smoother keystrokes and heavier forces providing a more tactile feedback.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Lightning's 3 mm travel distance. The Aqua's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by some users for its satisfying feedback. On the other hand, the Lightning's 3 mm travel distance is shallower, catering to those who prefer a quicker response time and a more responsive feel, especially useful for gamers. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the Aqua providing a deeper key press and the Lightning offering a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Lightning comes in at $3.41 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 sounds, creating a distinctive auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the KTT Lightning linear switch also produces a clacky sound profile, which is crisp, bright, and percussive. Both switches have a chirpy element to their sound, providing a playful and distinctive auditory feedback during typing. Ultimately, while the Aqua may have a lighter and potentially more unique sound profile, the Lightning switch offers a similar level of sharpness and brightness in its sound signature.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feathery feel of the Aqua switch adds to the overall comfort and responsiveness during typing. In contrast, the KTT Lightning linear switch offers a subtle resistance that provides a gentle typing feel, making it suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound profile. The polished finish of the Lightning switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, enhancing the overall typing comfort.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua switch may provide a lighter touch and a more feathery feel, the Lightning switch offers a similar level of clacky sound profile and a polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience. By considering these subjective qualities, newcomers can make an informed decision on which switch aligns best with their preferences for mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Lightning linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Choose the Dareu Aqua if you prefer a super light actuation force of 37g, chirpy and clacky sound signature, and an easy-to-press, feathery feel. This switch is ideal for those who enjoy a lighter touch and want a unique typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the KTT Lightning if you prioritize a slightly heavier 50g actuation force, a clacky sound profile, and a subtle, polished feel. These switches are perfect for situations where speed and precision are crucial, offering a slick typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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