Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch offer distinct characteristics for different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze does not have a specific standout feature but is known for its clicky feedback. This switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a satisfying tactile response with each keystroke. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Spring Breeze, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles due to their different materials. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Spring Breeze's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Both materials have their advantages, with polycarbonate being stiffer and more resonant, and nylon being softer and absorbing more sound. This results in distinct typing experiences for users of each switch.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Aqua and the Spring Breeze feature nylon bottom housings. This means that users of both switches can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. While the top housing may have more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys. Overall, the nylon bottom housings contribute to the overall typing experience of both switches.
While the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Spring Breeze differ in terms of their top housings, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The combination of polycarbonate top housing in the Aqua and nylon top housing in the Spring Breeze provides users with a variety of options to choose from depending on their sound preferences. Regardless of the differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that can be enhanced by the qualities each housing material brings to the table. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both the Aqua and the Spring Breeze deliver similar results in terms of overall typing satisfaction.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, we can see some differences. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Spring Breeze's 40 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Spring Breeze is heavier at 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Aqua is unknown. This means that the Spring Breeze requires a bit more force to fully press a key compared to the Aqua. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua may be the better choice, as it requires less force to initiate a keystroke. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze may be more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for typing force and feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users will experience a consistent amount of key travel when typing on both switches. This similarity ensures that users will get a similar typing experience in terms of the physical feel of pressing down on the keys. Overall, the travel distance of both switches contributes to a comfortable typing experience, whether you prefer the linear feel of the Aqua switch or the clicky feedback of the Spring Breeze switch.
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 Spring Breeze 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, described as chirpy and clacky. The light 37g actuation force creates a distinctive and satisfying sound when typing, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has no specific sound characteristics mentioned, leaving it up to individual user preference. Both switches will produce audible feedback when typing, but the Aqua's chirpy and clacky sound is likely to stand out more.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua linear switch offers an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience. The light actuation force requires minimal effort to activate, reducing finger fatigue and providing a smooth and responsive typing feel. This makes it particularly suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. Although the feel of the Spring Breeze clicky switch is not specified, its clicky nature suggests a tactile feedback that some users may find satisfying. Ultimately, the feel of the switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua switch provides a light touch with chirpy and clacky sounds, making it a great choice for those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switch offers a potentially tactile clicky feel without specific sound characteristics mentioned, catering to users who enjoy a more pronounced feedback. Depending on individual preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Aqua likely to appeal to those seeking a lighter touch and unique sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force and sound signature. If you prefer a super light actuation force of 37g and enjoy a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55g and prioritize a different sound profile, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch may be more suitable for your typing needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the experience you want to achieve with your mechanical keyboard.
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