Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean, both of which are linear switches. The Dareu Aqua is renowned for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sound signature, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean lacks a specific standout feature but offers a quieter typing experience. While the Dareu Aqua is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Dustproof Silent Ocean remains silent and smooth. 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Both the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Aqua and the Dustproof Silent Ocean differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Aqua uses nylon for its bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, their choice of bottom housing material sets them apart. The nylon bottom housing of the Dareu Aqua contributes to a duller and rounder sound profile, catering to those who prefer a softer typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, providing a different typing sensation for users. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows each switch to offer a unique typing experience to cater to different preferences in sound and feel.
Ultimately, the housing materials used in the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Aqua creates a balance between sharpness and depth in sound. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean's consistent use of polycarbonate and nylon housing throughout allows for a more unified typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile or a deeper sound with a softer feel, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to a variety of preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Aqua switch would require less force to register a keystroke. However, the bottom out force of the Aqua switch is unknown, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy. This suggests that the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch would provide a more substantial typing experience due to the higher force required to press all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on whether the user prefers a lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions or a heavier bottom out force for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a deeper keystroke feel compared to the Dustproof Silent Ocean. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Dustproof Silent Ocean for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Aqua. Both switches offer a different tactile experience due to their varying travel distances, catering to the preferences of different users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 Silent Ocean 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 offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, adding a touch of personality to your typing experience. The chirpy sound provides a little squeak, while the clacky sound is sharp and snappy, creating a crisp and percussive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch does not have any specific sound characteristics mentioned, so it is difficult to determine how it compares in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch boasts an easy-to-press and feathery feel, with a super light 37g actuation force that requires minimal effort to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, making it ideal for various activities such as gaming, work, or school. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch, so it is unclear how it stacks up against the Aqua in terms of typing comfort and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique combination of light actuation force, chirpy clacky sound, and a feather-light typing feel, making it a standout option for those seeking a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switch are unknown, it is likely that users will experience a similar level of comfort and responsiveness with this switch, although the sound characteristics may differ. Ultimately, the choice between the Dareu Aqua and Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider choosing the Dareu Aqua if you prefer a super light actuation force of 37g, a chirpy and clacky sound signature, and an easy-to-press and feathery feel during typing. The Dareu Aqua would be a great choice for those who enjoy a lighter touch and want a unique typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65g and a silent typing experience. The Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean may be more suitable for those who prefer a bit more weight in their key presses and value a quieter typing environment. Ultimately, weigh your preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel to choose the switch that best fits your typing style and needs.
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