Dareu Aqua vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua and HMX Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua is recognized for its super light 37g actuation force, resulting in a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press and feels feathery. On the other hand, the HMX Lotus features a medium weight of 50g bottom out with a bright, resonant sound, providing a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. While the Aqua offers a lighter touch and unique sound profile, the Lotus delivers a more substantial keystroke 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
45g
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
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Lotus, it is evident that both switches use nylon for their bottom housing. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the soft and sound-absorbent nature of nylon. This means that typing on either switch will result in a similar typing experience as the bottom housing contributes significantly to the bottom-out sound and feel. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches highlights the importance of creating a pleasant typing experience by producing a deeper and rounder sound.
However, when we look at the top housing materials, we see a difference between the two switches. The Dareu Aqua utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, while the HMX Lotus uses nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Lotus elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound. This contrast in top housing materials showcases how different plastics can influence the sound characteristics of a switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Lotus will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Aqua with its polycarbonate top housing would be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and fuller sound, the Lotus with its nylon top housing may be more to your liking. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience with their nylon bottom housing, but the top housing material will play a significant role in determining the overall sound profile of the switch.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Lotus has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force for the Aqua is unknown, while the Lotus requires 50 grams to bottom out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Aqua, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Lotus, with its heavier actuation force and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Aqua. The Aqua's 4 mm travel distance is more towards the traditional side, providing a good balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the Lotus with its 3.5 mm travel distance is more on the shorter side, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer a different feel when typing but ultimately provide similar results in terms of functionality. It ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the shorter and longer travel distances offered by these switches.
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 HMX Lotus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lotus for $2.99.
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 chirpy and clacky sound signature, providing a unique acoustic experience that sets it apart from other switches. The HMX Lotus linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its bright and resonant sound that adds a bouncy feeling to every keystroke. Depending on personal preference, the Aqua switch offers a more distinctive and sharp sound, while the Lotus switch provides a more vibrant and lively sound profile. Both switches can produce satisfying sounds based on individual preferences and usage scenarios, with the Aqua offering a lighter and chirpier tone and the Lotus delivering a more resonant and bouncy sound.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light actuation force that requires minimal effort to activate. This results in a typing experience that is effortless, comfortable, and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the HMX Lotus linear switch's feel quality is not specified, so it's essential to consider factors such as actuation force and tactile feedback when comparing it to the Aqua switch. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Aqua switch emphasizes a light and gentle typing feel, while the Lotus switch potentially offers a different tactile response.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch each offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Aqua switch is renowned for its distinctive chirpy and clacky sound, combined with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, making it a suitable choice for users seeking a lighter touch and responsive typing experience. The Lotus switch, on the other hand, is praised for its bright and resonant sound, potentially complemented by a bouncy and satisfying feel with its medium weight. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, ensuring that both options can provide satisfying results for newcomers exploring the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the HMX Lotus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a super light actuation force of 37g, along with a chirpy and clacky sound signature that stands out, then the Dareu Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier 50g bottom out force with a bouncy feeling and bright, resonant sound, the HMX Lotus switch may be more suited to your tastes. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what will enhance your typing experience and meet your specific preferences.
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