Dareu Aqua vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Aqua and Dareu Master mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a distinct chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Dareu Master offers a medium weight option with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness in operation. While the Aqua is easy-to-press and feathery, the Master is characterized as mild and polished. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Master, it is clear that the Aqua utilizes a polycarbonate top housing while the Master uses a POM top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, which is ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Master produces a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a unique typing experience that appeals to a different set of users. Despite these differences, both housing materials offer their own distinct advantages in terms of sound quality.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Aqua features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This adds a duller and rounder sound to the typing experience, providing a more tactile feel for users. Similarly, the Master's POM bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, offering a unique typing experience that complements the POM top housing well. Both bottom housings serve to enhance the overall sound quality of the switches, albeit in slightly different ways.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Aqua and the Dareu Master result in distinct sound profiles for each switch. While the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and clearer sound, the Master's POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Aqua and the POM bottom housing of the Master contribute to a fuller sound experience with their softer plastic compositions. Despite these differences, both switches offer high-quality sound profiles that cater to different preferences, making them ideal options for users looking for a unique typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it is difficult to compare them in that aspect. The Aqua switch would be more ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Master switch would be more suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Master. The Aqua's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feel, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Master's 3.4 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding key press depth and sensitivity.
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 Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, providing a distinct auditory experience. The chirpy sound adds a touch of whimsy while the clacky sound delivers a sharp and percussive tone. On the other hand, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a classic clacky sound signature, offering a crisp and bright sound when pressed. Both switches lean towards the clacky side, but the Aqua stands out with its added chirpy element, giving a more playful sound profile.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch boasts an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience due to its super light 37g actuation force. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and enhances typing comfort, making it effortless for extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Dareu Master linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild feel falls into a safe middle-ground zone, suitable for most users, while the polished finish ensures smooth and refined key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Aqua excels in offering an exceptionally light and responsive feel.
In conclusion, while both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch share the clacky sound signature, they offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua stands out with its chirpy sound and feather-light actuation force, ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Master provides a classic clacky sound and a polished feel, catering to users looking for a more traditional and refined typing experience. Depending on your preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a unique sound profile or a smooth typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force, sound signature, and typing feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua switch might be the ideal choice for you, especially if you enjoy a feathery and easy-to-press typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Master switch could be more suited to your preferences, especially if you prefer a mild and polished typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what characteristics align best with your typing style and preferences.
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