Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch. The Dareu Aqua switch is known for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix switch stands out with its under-skirt click mechanism, offering a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile that is truly unique. While the Aqua switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', the Phoenix switch is categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished'. The Aqua switch may be preferred by those who value a lighter touch and distinct sound, while the Phoenix switch may appeal to those looking for a unique clicky experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Phoenix, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Aqua differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Phoenix sticks with polycarbonate for the bottom housing as well, emphasizing clarity and resonance in its sound profile.
While the Aqua and Phoenix share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the Aqua's inclusion of nylon for the bottom housing sets it apart from the Phoenix. The differing bottom housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles - with the Aqua offering a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties, while the Phoenix maintains a sharper and crisper sound throughout its entirety. This highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to go with the Dareu Aqua or the Outemu Phoenix will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While both switches offer a sharp and crisp sound quality with their polycarbonate top housings, the Aqua provides a deeper and fuller sound experience with its nylon bottom housing, while the Phoenix maintains a consistent sharpness throughout due to its all-polycarbonate construction. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound and feel can help keyboard enthusiasts make an informed choice based on their preferred typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it is clear that they have significant differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams, compared to the Phoenix which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Phoenix requires a heavier 62 grams for keypresses to fully bottom out, while the Aqua's bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch would be more suitable for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a heavier keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Aqua has a longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. The Aqua's 4 mm travel distance may provide a more traditional key press feel, while the Phoenix's 3.3 mm travel distance might offer a slightly shallower key press. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Phoenix, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Aqua. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press 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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, it's evident that they offer distinct auditory experiences. The Aqua switch boasts a chirpy and clacky sound signature, adding a playful touch to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Phoenix switch provides a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Depending on personal preference, users may enjoy the sharp and snappy clack of the Aqua or the satisfying crunch of the Phoenix switch.
In terms of feel, the Aqua switch stands out for its easy-to-press and feathery characteristics, offering a light and responsive typing experience. This light actuation force ensures minimal strain on the fingers, promoting comfort during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Phoenix switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Whether one prefers the effortless typing experience of the Aqua switch or the sleek key travel of the Phoenix switch, both options cater to different tactile preferences.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua switch delights users with a chirpy and clacky sound, coupled with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Phoenix switch impresses with its crunchy sound and polished tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing comfort, ensuring that users can find their ideal mechanical keyboard switch based on their specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force with a chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force with a unique under-skirt click mechanism resulting in a crunchy sound profile and a polished feel, the Phoenix switch may be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
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