Dareu Aqua vs. Durock Piano
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Durock Piano switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Piano offers a gliding push feel and deep, creamy sound signature thanks to its proprietary material blend, making it a pleasant typing experience. While the Aqua is known for being easy-to-press and feathery, the Piano is characterized as bassy, frictionless, and silky. Ultimately, each switch has its own distinct qualities that may suit different typing styles and 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Mystery material
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary POM blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and Durock Piano both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in unique sound profiles. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Piano's POM blend top housing, which offers a deeper and more satisfying sound experience. In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua is translucent and ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, while the proprietary POM blend top housing of the Piano adds a touch of mystery with its undisclosed composition.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housings of these switches, the Aqua's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the Piano's proprietary POM blend bottom housing offers a uniquely satisfying and deep sound profile, complementing the top housing's characteristics. Both switches showcase how the choice of bottom housing can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on a mechanical keyboard.
While the housing materials of the Aqua and Piano differ in terms of top and bottom housings, each serving a unique purpose in sound production, they both aim to provide a premium typing experience. Whether it be the sharp and clear sound profile of the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing or the deep and satisfying sound profile of the Piano's proprietary POM blend, both switches offer a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts seeking a customized typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Piano's actuation force is unknown. Similarly, the Aqua does not provide information on its bottom out force, while the Piano has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 63.5 grams. Individuals who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the Aqua for a more effortless typing experience, while those who enjoy a more substantial push may opt for the Piano. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is evident that they offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that users can expect consistent feedback and tactile response when using either switch. The uniform travel distance of 4 mm ensures that both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, allowing for smooth and precise key presses. Overall, whether you choose the Dareu Aqua or the Durock Piano linear switch, you can be confident in receiving a consistent and reliable typing experience with a travel distance that remains the same at 4 mm.
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 Durock Piano has an MSRP of $6.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Piano for $5.57.
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 it a distinctive audible experience. The chirpy characteristic adds a subtle squeak to key presses, while the clacky feature delivers a sharp and snappy sound, making each keystroke crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch provides a deep and creamy sound profile, described as bassy in nature. This gives a rich and full-bodied sound to typing, enhancing the overall auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Aqua focusing on chirpy and clacky tones, while the Piano emphasizes a bassy sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities. These attributes make typing effortless and comfortable, as the light 37g actuation force requires minimal effort to activate the keys. The feathery feel also reduces finger fatigue, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Piano linear switch is known for its frictionless and silky feel. The frictionless characteristic provides an extremely smooth typing experience, while the silky attribute enhances the overall smoothness of key presses. Both switches offer a distinct tactile sensation, with the Aqua focusing on an easy-to-press and feathery feel, while the Piano provides a frictionless and silky typing experience.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua and Durock Piano linear switches offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound signature, coupled with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the Piano provides a deep and creamy sound profile, along with a frictionless and silky typing sensation. While their characteristics differ, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience that caters to individual preferences. Depending on your personal preference for sound and feel, you can achieve satisfying results with either the Dareu Aqua or Durock Piano linear switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock Piano linear switch, consider the following guidelines based on your preferences and needs. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch may be the ideal choice for you. It offers an easy-to-press and feathery feel, making typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, creamy sound signature with a gliding push feel, the Durock Piano switch could be more suitable for your typing style. It provides a frictionless and silky typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness of your key presses. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound, feel, and typing experience that align with your preferences and typing habits.
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