Dareu Aqua vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switches are both compelling options with their own unique characteristics. The Dareu Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream offers a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile that adds a touch of texture and resonance to each keystroke. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, one can see a significant difference between the two. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Cream utilizes a POM top housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the Aqua providing a more distinct and resonant sound compared to the Cream's softer and rounder tone.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Aqua's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Cream's POM bottom housing also provides a deep and muted sound, aligning with its top housing material. While the materials differ between the two switches, both bottom housings contribute to creating a sound that is on the deeper side and adds to the overall typing experience. This similarity in sound profile between the bottom housings of the Aqua and the Cream may result in comparable typing experiences for users who prefer a more subdued sound.
When considering the impact of housing materials on typing feel, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The Nylon bottom housing of the Aqua will affect the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a deeper and fuller sensation when pressing down on the keys. In contrast, the POM bottom housing of the Cream will also contribute to a deeper and more muted typing experience. Additionally, the top housing of each switch will play a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key, with polycarbonate creating a more resonant sound in the Aqua, while POM offers a softer sound in the Cream.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switch which has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua's force is unknown while the NovelKeys Cream has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. This means that the Aqua switch may provide a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream switch offers a more substantial and forceful typing feel, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a stronger push when typing. Both switches have their strengths, with the Aqua being lighter and the NovelKeys Cream offering a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the switch travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide a similar typing experience and result in similar key press feedback. Because of this, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the two switches, making them equally suitable choices for those looking for a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, giving it a distinctive acoustic profile. The chirpy sound adds a subtle squeak to each keystroke, while the clacky sound provides a sharp and snappy feel to typing. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch provides a deeper and more resonant sound profile, with a low-pitched tone that adds a bass-heavy and mellow quality to typing. The resonant sound delivers a clean, sharp auditory experience that is immersive and engaging. Ultimately, the Aqua's sound is characterized by its chirpy and clacky nature, while the Cream's sound leans towards a deeper and more resonant tone.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out with its easy-to-press and feathery qualities. These switches offer minimal resistance during key presses, requiring very little force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. The light actuation force of the Aqua switches enhances the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive, low-impact feel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Additionally, the Cream switches offer a textured feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a slight friction during typing. The Cream switches also offer an invigorating typing sensation, with pronounced feedback and a snappy, reactive feel. Overall, the Aqua switch focuses on a light and easy typing experience, while the Cream switch emphasizes smoothness and texture.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, along with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch provides a deeper, resonant sound profile and a buttery, textured typing experience. Both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Aqua focusing on lightness and unique sound and the Cream emphasizing smoothness and texture. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between the Aqua for a light and chirpy experience or the Cream for a smooth and textured typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light touch with a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Aqua switch with its 37g actuation force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream switch with its 70g bottom out force is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel. Explore both options to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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