Dareu Aqua vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua and Cherry MX Orange offer two distinct experiences that cater to different typing preferences. The Dareu Aqua, known for its exceptionally light 37g actuation force, provides a feather-light feel that appeals to those who enjoy a responsive, effortless typing experience. Its unique sound profile features a chirpy and clacky auditory feedback, making it an engaging option for users who appreciate sound dynamics in their typing rhythm. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange switch, reintroduced with enhancements from the MX2A generation, taps into the nostalgic essence of the original MX Orange switches, delivering a well-rounded tactile experience that balances both performance and comfort. While the MX Orange might not be as light as the Aqua, it offers a solid feel that's favored by gamers and typists alike. Ultimately, both of these linear switches cater to different preferences, inviting you to explore their unique characteristics. 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
55g
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
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Cherry MX Orange switches, we observe a stark contrast in their top housing composition. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, it allows for greater resonance and clarity in sound when typing. This quality becomes particularly advantageous for users who appreciate RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the illumination effect, making it aesthetically pleasing. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange employs a nylon top housing, which absorbs sound to create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic results in a more muted auditory experience, making it less conducive to high-pitched tones and sharper sounds associated with polycarbonate.
Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which contributes to a consistent auditory profile. The nylon material found in both the Aqua and MX Orange results in a deeper and rounder sound when typing, as it effectively absorbs sound waves. This shared aspect of their design means that while the top housings differ in sound characteristics, the bottom housing serves to balance the overall auditory experience across both switches. The strength of the nylon in the bottom housing will dominate the perception of sound when keys are bottomed out, resulting in a similar overall feel when pressing down on these switches.
Ultimately, the differences in the top housing materials lead to unique sound profiles in terms of key press release, while the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a deeper sound experience for both switches upon bottoming out. Users seeking a crisp and vibrant response might gravitate towards the Dareu Aqua, whereas those who prefer the fullness and richness of sound may opt for the Cherry MX Orange. In scenarios where a blend of the two sound experiences is desired, the user may find that switching between the two models offers a balanced combination of the sharper sound from the polycarbonate top and the warmer tones produced by the nylon bottom.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch with the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation forces. The Aqua switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Cherry MX Orange requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. This means that typists or gamers who favor a lighter switch may find the Dareu Aqua more comfortable for long typing sessions or extended use, as it requires less effort to register keystrokes. However, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Cherry MX Orange due to its firmer feel. Unfortunately, both switches do not have a specified bottom out force, making a direct comparison in that area impossible. Overall, the Aqua is the lighter switch, while the Cherry MX Orange offers a heavier touch.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they press down to the bottom to the same extent. This equal travel distance suggests that users can expect a similar tactile feedback and key feel when actuating keys on keyboards equipped with either switch. Since both switches have the same travel distance, they will provide comparable typing experiences in terms of key engagement and responsiveness, making them suitable for users who appreciate consistent actuation depth in their mechanical keyboards.
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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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 exhibits a distinctive blend of chirpy and clacky characteristics. This acoustic signature creates a unique auditory experience, where the chirpy quality adds a subtle squeak to each keystroke, while the clacky nature produces a sharp and percussive sound that feels both bright and crisp. This combination is particularly appealing for users who appreciate a lively and engaging sound profile during their typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Orange switch does not come with a specific sound description, which means its auditory qualities are less defined, leaving potential users curious about its performance in a sound context.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers an exceptionally light actuation force of just 37g. This not only makes the switches easy to press, requiring minimal exertion, but it also delivers a feathery typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue. Such qualities enhance the overall comfort during long typing sessions, making the Aqua switch an excellent choice for those who prioritize effortless typing and gaming. Conversely, the lack of specific descriptions for the MX Orange leaves its tactile feedback and overall feel largely unknown, making direct comparisons difficult.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by its light actuation force and unique sound profile, making it an enticing choice for users seeking an engaging and comfortable typing experience. The Cherry MX Orange switch, while historically significant, lacks available details regarding its sound and feel, making it harder to gauge its suitability for a variety of tasks. Nonetheless, both switches could cater to specific preferences, and users seeking a light touch and engaging sounds will likely find the Aqua switch more aligned with their needs. Overall, potential users should consider their personal preferences regarding sound and feel when making a decision between these two options.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch, consider your typing preferences and usage. If you prioritize a feather-light touch and enjoy a unique sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky tones, the Aqua switch is an excellent choice. Its 37g actuation force ensures a comfortable and effortless typing experience, making it particularly suitable for long periods of use—ideal for casual gaming or extensive typing sessions. On the other hand, if you're looking for a reliable switch with a more traditional feel, the Cherry MX Orange switch provides a balanced experience that can accommodate both typing and gaming effectively. Although specific details on its actuation force and sound signature are unavailable, the MX Orange’s reputability and functional enhancements address high-demand needs, appealing to those who prefer a versatile and trusted option. Ultimately, your decision should reflect your tactile preferences and the environments in which you'll use your keyboard most often, ensuring an optimal typing experience tailored to your needs.
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