Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it becomes clear that each switch offers unique qualities catering to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua is renowned for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue does not have any specific standout features mentioned, but it is known for being a clicky switch. Choosing between the two switches may depend on whether you value a light touch and distinctive sound (Aqua) or a traditional clicky feel (Cream Blue). 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Cream Blue, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for their top housing. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cream Blue opts for a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound. While the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing provides a more classic typing experience with its softer plastic composition.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches again employ nylon as their material of choice. This classic switch housing material brings about a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. Consequently, the bottom housing of both the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Cream Blue contributes to the overall typing experience by creating a duller and rounder sound. While the top housing may have a more pronounced impact on the sound when pressing or releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and overall feel of the switch.
In essence, the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Cream Blue provide distinct sound profiles and typing experiences based on their unique properties. While the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, the Cream Blue's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches benefit from the use of nylon for their bottom housing, enhancing the overall typing experience with a duller and rounder sound. Whether opting for the Aqua or Cream Blue, users can expect a satisfying sound profile and feel, albeit with subtle differences in pitch and resonance based on the housing materials used.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. The bottom out force of the Cream Blue is also heavier at 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the Aqua is not known. The lighter actuation force of the Aqua may appeal to those who prefer a smoother typing experience for longer periods of time, such as for work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Cream Blue may be better suited for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. This makes them equal in terms of the distance traveled when typing or gaming. Despite both having the same travel distance, the Dareu Aqua switch provides a linear typing experience, while the Outemu Cream Blue switch offers a clicky feedback with an audible sound upon actuation. Ultimately, both switches offer a similar travel distance, but cater to different preferences in 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 Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 is praised for its unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures. The chirpy sound adds a little squeak to each press, while the clacky sound is sharp, snappy, and percussive. This combination sets the Aqua apart from other switches, giving it a distinctive auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch does not have any known sound descriptors provided, so it is difficult to compare directly. However, sound quality can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is renowned for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feathery feel of the Aqua switch further enhances typing experiences by providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Conversely, there are no known feel descriptors for the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, making it challenging to compare directly in terms of tactile feedback and typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua stands out for its chirpy and clacky sound signatures, as well as its easy-to-press and feathery feel. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's qualities in these aspects are unknown. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on personal preferences and typing needs, but based on the provided information, the Aqua is likely to provide a lighter touch with a unique auditory experience, while the Cream Blue may offer different qualities that are yet to be fully explored.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, your decision should be based on your preference for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and are looking for a clicky switch without specific sound or feel preferences, the Cream Blue switch might be more suitable for you. Consider these factors carefully to ensure that you choose the switch that best suits your typing or gaming needs.
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