Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and Gateron Mini i offer distinct experiences tailored 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 Gateron Mini i switches are known for their gentle tactility and muted sound profile, making them ideal for office environments where a quiet professionalism is paramount. While the Aqua switch offers a unique blend of characteristics, the Mini i strikes a balance between comfort and feedback. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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 double-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Mini i, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder tone. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches may offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
On the other hand, the Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Mini i utilizes nylon for its top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound and creates a rounder tone. This difference in top housing material may result in a noticeable variance in sound when pressing down on the keys or releasing them, with the Aqua providing a more clear and resonant sound compared to the Mini i.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Aqua and Gateron Mini i impacts the sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the Mini i's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller tone. This distinction in top housing material may lead to a noticeable difference in sound when typing on the switches, with the Aqua delivering a more resonant typing experience compared to the Mini i.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, it is evident that the Aqua is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams, compared to the Mini i which requires 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Mini i at 50 grams is heavier than the Aqua's force, which is unknown. The difference in forces between the two switches offers users a choice between a lighter actuation for extended typing or gaming sessions with the Aqua, or a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel using the Mini i. Both switches provide distinct typing experiences based on their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences for typing and gaming environments.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, we can see that the Aqua has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Mini i's 3.4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mini i being on the shallower end, the Aqua offers a slightly deeper key press. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Mini i, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the Aqua. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 is known for its chirpy and clacky sound signature, offering a unique and distinct auditory experience. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, striking a balance between feedback and quietness, making it suitable for office environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. While the Aqua provides a more pronounced and lively sound, the Mini i offers a subtle and gentle typing experience without sacrificing feedback.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua provides an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience due to its light actuation force. This makes typing effortless and reduces finger fatigue during extended sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i offers a range of feelings such as bouncy, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, catering to different preferences for typing feedback. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of use, with the Aqua leaning towards a lighter touch and the Mini i offering a variety of tactile sensations for a more personalized typing experience.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua provides a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press typing feel, the Mini i offers a more neutral sound profile and a range of tactile sensations for a versatile typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and typing feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you achieve similar results of comfort and performance despite their differences in characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a super light and easy-to-press switch with a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lightweight switch with gentle tactility, suitable for quiet office environments, the Mini i could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so choose wisely based on what suits you best.
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