Dareu Aqua vs. Cherry Nixie
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Cherry Nixie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua and Cherry Nixie mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The Dareu Aqua is a linear switch known for its super light 37g actuation force, offering a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those seeking a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie is a linear switch revered for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, incorporating updated materials and springs from Cherry's recent MX2A update. While the Aqua is described as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', the Nixie is categorized as 'Textured', 'Thocky', and 'Low-pitched'. Both switches have their unique selling points that cater to different preferences, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Cherry Nixie, we see that the Aqua utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Nixie features a nylon top housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users, as the polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua will provide a more clear and resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Nixie will offer a duller and rounder sound.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Dareu Aqua and the Cherry Nixie feature nylon bottom housings. While nylon is known for absorbing more sound and creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, the placement of this material in the bottom housing will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. This contrast in bottom housing material between the Aqua and Nixie will likely result in a difference in the overall typing experience, with the Aqua offering a potentially softer bottom-out sound compared to the Nixie.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Aqua and Cherry Nixie plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The use of polycarbonate in the Aqua's top housing creates a clear and resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the Nixie offers a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch contributes to their unique sound profiles and typing experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, the differences are evident. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with minimal effort. However, the bottom out force for the Aqua is unknown, so it is unclear how it compares to the Nixie's 80-gram bottom out force, which is relatively heavy. This suggests that the Nixie provides a more substantial typing experience, requiring a stronger push to fully press the key. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Aqua may be the better choice. On the other hand, the Nixie offers a more tactile and satisfying typing feel for those who enjoy a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity suggests that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the travel distance regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is on the shorter side compared to other switches that may have a longer travel distance, providing a quick and responsive typing experience for users.
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 Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 distinct chirpy and clacky sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience for users who enjoy a lighter touch. The Cherry Nixie linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deep and satisfying typing sound. While the Aqua switch brings a more lively and crisp sound, the Nixie switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound aesthetics, as both switches provide different auditory experiences that cater to different preferences.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cherry Nixie switch is known for its textured feel, providing noticeable friction when pressed that some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Aqua switch focusing on lightness and comfort, while the Nixie switch enhances tactility through its textured feel. Depending on individual preferences for typing feel, users can choose between the effortless lightness of the Aqua switch or the tactile feedback of the Nixie switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Aqua switch provides a chirpy and clacky sound signature with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Nixie switch offers a thocky sound profile with a textured typing experience. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, with both switches providing unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience. Overall, whether selecting the Aqua or Nixie switch, users can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Cherry Nixie linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a heavier bottom out force and a traditional yet updated typing experience with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry Nixie switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing needs and preferences.
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