Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer distinctive experiences for users. The Aqua, a linear switch, is praised for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who prefer a lighter touch and enjoy the ease of pressing keys. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue, a clicky switch, does not have any standout features mentioned but is known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound. While the Aqua offers a feathery touch and distinct sound profile, the Dustproof Blue provides a classic clicky experience. 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and Outemu Dustproof Blue both use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, while both switches have the same material for their top housing, the key difference lies in their bottom housing material.
On the other hand, the Dareu Aqua and Outemu Dustproof Blue utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Despite having different bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the qualities of their respective bottom housings.
Ultimately, the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of typing on that switch. While the polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp and resonant sound upon key release, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound upon key press. Understanding the impact of each housing material allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their preferred sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Dustproof Blue requires a heavier 50 grams to actuate. However, the bottom out force for the Aqua is unavailable, whereas the Dustproof Blue has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Aqua switch may provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for prolonged typing sessions, while the Dustproof Blue switch offers a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. In this case, both switches offer similar results in terms of the distance traveled when typing. Therefore, whether using the Dareu Aqua or the Outemu Dustproof Blue, users can expect a similar keypress experience in regards to 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 Outemu Dustproof 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, providing a distinct auditory experience for users. The chirpy sound adds a little squeak to each press, while the clacky sound delivers a sharp and snappy tone that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, information on the sound qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is currently unavailable. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers an easy-to-press experience with its super light 37g actuation force. This light actuation force means minimal effort is required to activate the keys, making typing effortless and comfortable. The feathery feel of the Aqua switch further enhances the typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. As for the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, information on its feel characteristics is not provided. However, it can be assumed that the clicky nature of the switch would offer tactile feedback and audible confirmation of key presses.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is a standout choice for those who prefer a light touch and enjoy the unique chirpy and clacky sound profile. Its easy-to-press and feathery feel adds to its appeal, providing a comfortable typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. While information on the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is limited, it can be expected to provide a tactile and audible typing experience similar to other clicky switches on the market. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, consider your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, then the Aqua switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a clicky switch without a specific sound profile mentioned, then the Dustproof Blue switch might be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound feedback.
Mentioned in this article
