Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Silent Yellow both offer a linear typing experience. The Dareu Aqua is praised for its super light 37g actuation force, giving it a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow does not have a specific standout feature but provides a smooth and quiet typing experience. The Aqua switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', while the Silent Yellow switch does not have any specific categorizations. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences. 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
60g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Silent Yellow, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, due to its relatively stiffer nature. This makes it ideal for switches that prioritize a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for better illumination. Therefore, in terms of the top housing material, both the Aqua and Silent Yellow offer similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the differences between the two switches become more apparent. The Aqua utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is softer than polycarbonate, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound but with a different tactile feel. Therefore, while the top housing materials may be the same for both switches, the choice of bottom housing material impacts the overall sound and typing experience.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are distributed differently between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Aqua provides a unique typing experience compared to the Silent Yellow, which also features both housing materials but with potentially different tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that there is a significant difference in weight between the two. The Dareu Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the heavier actuation force of 65 grams for the Outemu Silent Yellow. Additionally, while the Dareu Aqua does not have a specified bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Yellow has a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Dareu Aqua may be the preferred choice. However, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Outemu Silent Yellow would be the better option. 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 Silent Yellow linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be said that they both offer a consistent travel distance that provides a smooth and responsive typing experience. Users can expect similar results when using either switch, as the travel distance remains the same for both. This standard travel distance of 4 mm ensures that both switches offer a good balance between key travel and key actuation, making them suitable choices for those who prefer linear switches with a moderate amount of key travel. Overall, the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of 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 Silent Yellow 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 is unique with its chirpy and clacky sound signature, providing a lively and crisp auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have a specific sound description available, indicating that it may have a more muted or quiet sound profile. However, the actual sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is lauded for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a smooth typing experience with minimal resistance and strain on the fingers. This light actuation force enhances typing comfort and reduces fatigue during extended typing sessions, making it a popular choice for those who prioritize typing ergonomics. Conversely, information on the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is not provided, suggesting that its tactile experience may not be as well-defined or unique as the Dareu Aqua.
Overall, based on the available information, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its distinct sound profile and comfortable typing feel, particularly suited for users who prefer lighter switches. While details on the sound and feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch are not mentioned, it is important to consider personal preferences and usage scenarios when selecting a mechanical keyboard switch to ensure a satisfactory typing experience. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results if light actuation force and smooth typing are the key priorities for the user.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it's important to consider your preferences and priorities for your typing experience. If you value a super light actuation force of 37g, with a chirpy and clacky sound signature, and an easy-to-press, feathery feel, then the Dareu Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80g and a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what characteristics are most important to you in a keyboard switch.
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