Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron North Pole V2

Overview

When comparing the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron North Pole V2 mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features and experiences for users. The Aqua stands out with 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 North Pole V2 offers a gummy typing experience with a deep and muted sound profile, along with a satisfyingly chewy feel. While the Aqua is described as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', the North Pole V2 is categorized as 'Gummy', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Bouncy', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing choices for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Aqua Linear

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron North Pole V2, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This choice of material also allows for the translucency needed for RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Aqua employs nylon for its bottom housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material, which absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the North Pole V2 sticks with polycarbonate for the bottom housing, maintaining a consistent sharp and resonant sound profile throughout the switch.

The use of different bottom housing materials in the Aqua and the North Pole V2 results in different typing experiences for users. With the Aqua's nylon bottom housing, typists can expect a softer and more subdued bottom-out sound and feel, creating a more muffled and round typing experience. In contrast, the North Pole V2's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the switch's overall sharp and clear sound profile, offering a more consistent typing experience with a crisper bottom-out sound. This highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.

Overall, while both the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron North Pole V2 utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The Aqua's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique sound profile that is deeper and fuller, while the North Pole V2's use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing ensures a consistent sharp and resonant sound throughout. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for typing feel and sound profile.

Weight

In comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the North Pole V2 requires a heavier 50 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua's force is unknown, while the North Pole V2 has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Dareu Aqua, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Gateron North Pole V2. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for users.

Travel distance

Both the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent tactile experience in terms of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get similar results when typing or gaming with either switch. It is rare to find switches with identical travel distances, so whether you choose the Dareu Aqua or the Gateron North Pole V2, you can be confident that you will have a consistent typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, characterized by a subtle squeak and sharp, percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch offers a deep and muted sound profile, described as subdued, providing a more subtle and dampened sound compared to most switches. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on the user's preference and setup.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during extended use. Additionally, its feathery feel offers a light and comfortable typing experience, suitable for prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron North Pole V2 switch provides a gummy and creamy typing experience, reminiscent of bottoming out on a trampoline or enjoying a smooth and buttery keystroke sensation. Its bouncy and polished characteristics offer a lively and refined typing experience, ensuring a comfortable and satisfying feel with each keystroke.

In conclusion, while each switch offers a unique sound and feel profile, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is distinguished by its chirpy and clacky sound signature, along with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch provides a gummy and creamy typing experience, coupled with a subdued sound profile and bouncy, polished feel. Both switches offer their own set of subjective qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a pleasant and personalized typing experience for users. Ultimately, choosing between the Dareu Aqua and Gateron North Pole V2 switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron North Pole V2 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force and a gummy, subdued sound profile, the North Pole V2 could be the perfect fit. Consider how each switch aligns with your typing style and preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Aqua Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

Gateron North Pole V2 Linear

$6.80

$5.70 per 10

Learn more