Dareu Aqua vs. Cherry MX Purple RGB
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua and the Cherry MX Purple RGB offer distinct experiences that cater to different user preferences. The Dareu Aqua, a linear switch, is celebrated for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a feather-light touch that results in a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature. This makes it an excellent option for those who enjoy a fast-paced typing experience without the resistance of heavier switches. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is a tactile switch that features a refined medium-strength bump, fostering a more deliberate typing experience that many find satisfying. Ideal for users who appreciate tactile feedback, the MX Purple RGB supports precision and control during typing and gaming sessions. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal 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
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
The Dareu Aqua and Cherry MX Purple RGB switches utilize different materials for their top housings, leading to distinct auditory experiences and tactile feedback. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile, characterized by its relatively stiff nature. This stiffness facilitates a clearer and more resonant sound, especially beneficial when enhancing RGB lighting because polycarbonate’s translucency allows light to shine through effectively. In contrast, the MX Purple RGB’s top housing is made from nylon, a material well-known for its softer properties. This softness tends to absorb sound, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a contrasting auditory experience that is more muted compared to that of the Aqua.
When examining the bottom housings, both the Dareu Aqua and the Cherry MX Purple RGB utilize nylon, making this feature a commonality between the two switches. Nylon’s inherent softness allows for better sound absorption, contributing to a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, the bottom housing plays a significant role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Given that both switches share this material in their bottom housings, one can expect a similar sensation when typing or gaming, with both switches delivering a satisfying and deep sound when the key is fully engaged.
Overall, the combination of different top housing materials in the Aqua and MX Purple RGB demonstrates how the choice of materials affects the overall sound profile and typing experience. While the Aqua’s polycarbonate top housing results in a brighter, resonant sound, the nylon top housing of the Cherry MX Purple RGB produces a more subdued auditory experience. However, the similarities in their nylon bottom housings ensure that both switches provide a satisfying typing feel and sound when bottoming out. Thus, while their top housing materials create distinct sounds, the underlying similarity in their bottom housing guarantees that both switches ultimately offer an enjoyable user experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation forces. The Aqua switch requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a more effortless typing experience, ideal for extended use such as long work hours or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing. Unfortunately, the bottom out forces for both switches are unknown, preventing a direct comparison in that regard. However, based on their actuation forces, it can be concluded that the Dareu Aqua switch is lighter and better for prolonged use, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is heavier, catering to those who favor a firmer typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch exhibit identical travel distances, both measuring 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect a similar tactile experience when pressing down on the keys of either switch. With both switches offering this uniform travel distance, they are likely to provide comparable results in terms of keystroke feel and responsiveness. Consequently, for those seeking a consistent typing or gaming experience, either switch would serve well given their equal travel specifications.
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 Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 delivers a unique acoustic profile characterized by a chirpy and clacky sound signature. The chirpy aspect adds a subtle squeak, giving it a playful edge, while the clacky sound produces a sharp and snappy noise, resulting in a bright and percussive auditory experience. This distinctive sound makes the Aqua switch an appealing choice for those who enjoy a lively and engaging typing atmosphere. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch does not have a specific sound profile detailed, but it generally aligns with the expectations of other tactile switches known for their muted yet pronounced feedback. The sound experience of the MX Purple may vary based on the keyboard and keycap setup, though it typically leans towards a less prominent auditory presence.
When considering feel, the Dareu Aqua switch excels with an extremely light actuation force of 37g, which makes key presses feel effortless and gentle. The easy-to-press nature of the Aqua switch allows for a comfortable typing experience, significantly reducing finger fatigue during prolonged use. Additionally, it has a feathery quality whereby minimal exertion is required, making it particularly suitable for long gaming sessions or extensive typing work. In contrast, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch is designed to offer a tactile bump with medium force, providing a more grounded feedback with each press. This tactile engagement may appeal to users who prefer confirmation through their key presses, but it will require a bit more effort compared to the lighter Aqua switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch provides a distinctive auditory experience with its chirpy and clacky sounds, paired with an exceptionally light and comfortable feel that minimizes finger fatigue. Conversely, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch offers a more traditional tactile experience, though the specifics of its sound profile remain unspecified. Overall, both switches cater to different preferences: the Aqua is suited for those seeking lively sound and effortless typing, while the MX Purple caters to users who prefer tactile feedback with moderate engagement.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch ultimately depends on your specific typing and gaming preferences. If you favor a light touch and enjoy a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua switch is an excellent choice. Its remarkably low actuation force makes it especially suitable for long typing sessions, allowing for a more effortless experience that can reduce finger fatigue. This makes the Aqua an appealing option for users who primarily use their keyboard for quick typing or gaming where speed is essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback experience with a moderate bump during key presses, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switch will be the better selection. It offers a refined tactile sensation that can enhance typing precision, making it ideal for those who value feedback when typing or gaming, particularly in scenarios where accuracy is key. Thus, consider your personal preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing style to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard journey.
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