Dareu Aqua vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it's important to note the distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Dareu Aqua is praised for its super light 37g actuation force, giving it a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray offers a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile that some users may find appealing. Both switches have their own set of qualities, making them suitable for 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Aqua differs from the Polaris Gray in its use of nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray, which produces a sharper and more resonant sound.
The difference in bottom housing materials further highlights the contrast between the Dareu Aqua and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The nylon bottom housing of the Aqua absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound profile, giving typists a different tactile experience compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray. This distinction demonstrates how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, the difference in bottom housing material allows for a unique typing experience with each switch.
Overall, the utilization of different housing materials in the Dareu Aqua and the SP-Star Polaris Gray showcases the importance of housing material in determining the sound and feel of a mechanical switch. While both switches share the same polycarbonate top housing, the choice of nylon for the Aqua's bottom housing and polycarbonate for the Polaris Gray's bottom housing results in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. Whether one prefers a deeper, fuller sound profile or a sharper, crisper sound, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, whereas the Polaris Gray does not specify its actuation force. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Aqua, which does not specify its bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Aqua may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Gray may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance being traveled from the top to the bottom. This means that in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches. It is worth noting that the travel distance of 4 mm for both switches falls within the standard range for linear switches, providing a consistent typing experience for users who prefer shorter travel distances.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 known for its chirpy and clacky sound signature, adding a unique auditory experience to typing sessions. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and clacky sound profile with a low-pitched and thocky characteristic. While the Aqua switch provides a more distinct and sharp sound with a hint of squeakiness, the Polaris Gray switch offers a deeper and more mellow tone with a satisfying thocky sound. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches will depend on the individual's personal taste in keyboard sound.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, enabling effortless and comfortable typing with minimal finger fatigue. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth key travel that is approachable to most users. While the Aqua switch focuses on light actuation force and low impact to enhance typing experience, the Polaris Gray switch aims for a refined and polished feel with reduced friction. The choice between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter and more effortless typing feel or a smoother and polished typing experience.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles for keyboard enthusiasts. The Aqua switch stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound, along with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel, providing a unique and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch showcases a clean and clacky sound with a low-pitched and thocky tone, paired with a mild and polished typing feel for a more refined experience. Ultimately, both switches offer different but equally enjoyable typing experiences, catering to a variety of user preferences and typing styles. Whether opting for the distinctive chirpy sound of the Aqua switch or the smoother feel of the Polaris Gray switch, users can expect satisfying and high-quality performance from either option.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua switch would be a great choice for you. It provides an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, ideal for reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch might be more suitable. It offers a mild and polished typing experience, catering to a wider range of users with its neutral sound profile. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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