Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, it's important to note the unique characteristics of each. The Dareu Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, offering a distinctive blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro switches are known for their smooth keystrokes, evoking a buttery smoothness and low-pitched "thock" sound, making them an affordable option for those seeking a pleasant 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), we see that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound. This means that both switches will have a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel. However, the Aqua uses polycarbonate for its top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing, which produces a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of aesthetics, the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing is not translucent, so it may not be as visually striking when paired with RGB lighting. When it comes to sound, the stiffer polycarbonate of the Aqua's top housing leads to a clearer and more resonant sound profile, while the softer nylon of the Milky Red Pro's top housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a different sound experience for each switch.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) result in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound, the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing enhances its sound with a sharper and crisper tone. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound that absorbs more sound. These differences in housing materials highlight the importance of choosing the right switch for your typing preferences and aesthetic preferences when it comes to customizing your keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aqua switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch requires 45 grams to actuate, making it slightly heavier. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua switch's force is unknown, while the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch has a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is considered medium-light. The lighter actuation force of the Aqua switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier actuation force of the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Overall, both switches offer a consistent and comparable keypress experience in terms of travel distance.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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, providing a distinctive typing experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes that elicit a pleasing, low-pitched "thock" sound, giving a buttery smooth typing experience. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Aqua focusing on a lighter and more crisp sound, while the Milky Red Pro emphasizes a smoother and more bass-heavy tone. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the chirpy and clacky sounds of the Aqua or the deep and satisfying thocky sound of the Milky Red Pro.
In terms of 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 minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is effortless and uniform. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Aqua focusing on reducing finger strain with its light actuation force, while the Milky Red Pro delivers a seamless typing sensation with its buttery smoothness.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua provides a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sounds with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel, the Milky Red Pro offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with a low-pitched thocky sound. Choosing between the two switches ultimately comes down to individual preferences for sound and feel, as both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you should consider the unique characteristics of each switch to match your preference and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and affordable typing experience with a medium-light actuation force and a buttery keystroke sensation, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on your personal preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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