Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Peach
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Peach, both of which are linear switches. The Dareu Aqua is well-known for its super light 37g actuation force, resulting in a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach switches are praised for their feather-lightweight design and silent operation, appealing to linear switch enthusiasts seeking a muted and polished typing experience. While both switches offer distinct qualities that make them attractive options, it is important to delve deeper into their characteristics to determine which one would best suit your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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 Peach, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deep and full sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material suggests that the typing experience on both switches will have a similar overall sound profile, emphasizing the importance of the bottom housing in creating a satisfying typing feel.
However, the top housings of the Dareu Aqua and Outemu Peach differ, with the Aqua using polycarbonate and the Peach using nylon. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, while the Peach's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile because of its softer and sound-absorbing properties. This contrast highlights how the choice of material in the top housing can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, providing users with different typing experiences depending on their preference for sound profile.
Overall, the combination of nylon bottom housing and different top housings in the Dareu Aqua and Outemu Peach showcases the diverse options available in the mechanical keyboard market. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with their deep and full sound profiles from the nylon bottom housing, the choice between the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Aqua or the softer, fuller sound of nylon in the Peach provides users with the opportunity to customize their typing experience to suit their preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch play a crucial role in defining the overall typing experience, making it essential for users to consider the characteristics of each material when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 37 grams compared to the Peach's 40 grams. However, the Peach has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the bottom out force for the Aqua is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Aqua may be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Peach with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Outemu Peach linear switch. The Aqua switch offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Peach switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers seeking faster response times may prefer the Peach switch with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a deeper key press experience may opt for the Aqua switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Peach comes in at $3.40 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, giving a distinctive auditory experience as compared to the Outemu Peach linear switch, which provides a more neutral and muted sound profile due to its silencing properties. The Aqua switch's chirpy and clacky characteristics create a lively and sharp typing sound, whereas the Peach switch delivers a softer and quieter sound, ideal for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch boasts an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel due to its super light 37g actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the Outemu Peach linear switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience, with a gentle resistance that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Peach switch's polished finish provides a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring a sleek key travel.
Overall, while the Dareu Aqua linear switch excels in providing a unique light and chirpy typing experience with a more pronounced sound profile, the Outemu Peach linear switch offers a gentle and silenced typing experience suitable for those who prefer a quieter feel. Both switches cater to individuals seeking a lightweight typing experience, with the Aqua switch leaning towards a livelier sound and feel, and the Peach switch offering a more neutral and refined option. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Peach linear switch, it's important to consider your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound, the Dareu Aqua switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a feather-light typing experience with silenced switches, the Outemu Peach switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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