Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and Outemu Purple offer two distinct experiences for users. The Aqua, a linear switch, boasts a super light 37g actuation force, resulting in a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature. This makes it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter touch and enjoy the ease of pressing keys effortlessly. On the other hand, the Purple, a tactile switch, does not have a standout feature like the Aqua, but offers a different typing experience altogether. Tactile switches are known for providing feedback to users when a key is actuated, making them a popular choice for typists who desire a more tactile feel while typing. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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 Purple both feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. The similarities in their polycarbonate top housings mean that both switches will offer a similar sound experience, with minor differences in pitch and resonance.
In contrast, the Dareu Aqua and Outemu Purple diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. The Aqua utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Purple also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a focus on creating a more muted and well-rounded sound output. Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles attributed to their respective materials.
When considering the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it's essential to recognize how the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall sound and feel of a switch. The characteristics of the bottom housing material are more pronounced during the act of pressing down on a key, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the qualities of the top housing material are more noticeable when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced at that moment. Understanding these distinctions can help users appreciate the nuanced differences between switches like the Dareu Aqua and Outemu Purple, even when they share similar housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the Purple requires a heavier force with an actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Aqua's 37 grams. This means that the Purple switch will provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. However, since both switches have an unknown bottom out force, it is difficult to determine which one requires more force to fully press down. In terms of weight, the Aqua switch is lighter, which may be preferred by those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the switch travel exactly 4 mm from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience, as the distance traveled is the same for both. Consequently, whether you choose the Dareu Aqua or the Outemu Purple, you can expect to get comparable results in terms of keypress travel.
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 Purple 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
The Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its unique sound profile, combining a chirpy and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. The light 37g actuation force results in a keyboard that produces a distinctive and lively sound when pressed, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch lacks specific sound descriptors, leaving it unknown how it compares in terms of sound. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Aqua is praised for its easy-to-press nature and feathery touch. With minimal force required to activate the switches, typing on the Aqua linear switch is effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. The feathery feel of the Aqua switch further enhances the typing experience by providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Conversely, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch, making it difficult to compare its typing experience with the Aqua switch.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique and lively sound profile with a light actuation force, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter touch and distinctive sound. Its easy-to-press and feathery feel also contribute to a comfortable typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. While specific information on the sound and feel of the Outemu Purple tactile switch is lacking, it is likely that users will experience similar results in sound and feel to the information provided for the Aqua switch. Ultimately, the choice between the Aqua and Purple switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a super light touch with a unique chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua switch with its 37g actuation force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a different typing experience with a tactile feedback, you may opt for the Purple switch. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing needs.
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