Dareu Aqua vs. Bsun Olive
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Bsun Olive switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the BSUN Olive tactile switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The Aqua is known for its super light 37g actuation force and unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Olive switches stand out with their medium-weight and pronounced tactile feedback, providing a satisfying feel and deep sound during use. Both switches offer a unique experience, but the Aqua is more easy-to-press and feathery, while the Olive is accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Bsun Olive both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those looking for a higher-pitched sound. On the other hand, the Olive has a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer their own distinct sound qualities, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound profiles.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Aqua utilizes nylon which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Similarly, the Olive also utilizes POM for its bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and more muted sound profile. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a similar sound experience with their bottom housing materials, catering to those who prefer a deeper sound profile for their typing experience.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Bsun Olive, it is clear that they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper sound profile and the nylon bottom housing creates a fuller sound, the Olive's POM top and bottom housings provide a deeper and more muted sound experience. Ultimately, whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile or a deeper, more muted sound, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that contribute to an overall satisfying typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it is evident that the Olive switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Aqua switch's 37 grams. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Aqua switch is unknown, while the Olive switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. The difference in actuation force suggests that the Olive switch may feel slightly heavier when typing, providing a more substantial typing experience. However, the Aqua switch's lighter actuation force may be preferred by those looking for a more effortless typing experience for extended periods, such as professionals or gamers engaging in long gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Olive switch slightly shorter in terms of travel distance compared to the Aqua switch. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, the Aqua switch offers a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Olive switch. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Olive switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Aqua switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feedback and typing experience.
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 Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 combination of chirpy and clacky sounds, providing a distinctive auditory experience during typing. On the other hand, the BSUN Olive tactile switch boasts a resonant, deep sound that is set apart by its all-POM housings. The difference in sound between the two switches is evident, with the Aqua providing a lighter and crisper sound compared to the deeper and more resonant sound of the Olive. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their auditory taste.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is lauded for its light 37g actuation force, offering an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience that reduces finger fatigue and enhances comfort during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the BSUN Olive switch provides a tactile experience characterized by accents of tactility, invigorating feedback, sharp tactile bumps, and a snappy typing feel. The differences in feel between the two switches are striking, with the Aqua offering a lighter and smoother typing experience while the Olive provides a more tactile and responsive feel. Users looking for a gentle and effortless typing experience may prefer the Aqua, while those seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback may lean towards the Olive.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the BSUN Olive tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua stands out with its light actuation force and chirpy, clacky sound signature, providing a unique auditory experience for users who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Olive distinguishes itself with its tactile feedback, deep sound, and pronounced typing feel, catering to users who enjoy a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the Bsun Olive tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for actuation force, sound, and feel. 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 enjoy a medium-heavy actuation force, a resonant, deep sound, and a tactile switch with pronounced feedback, the Bsun Olive switch could be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your individual typing style and preferences for sound and feel.