Dareu Aqua vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua, a linear switch, is praised for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press and feels feathery. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), a tactile switch, boasts maximum tactility with a sharp tactility and a clean clack that leaves a satisfying feeling. While the Aqua is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is perfect for those seeking a punchy and resonant typing 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
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower), we can see that both switches offer unique characteristics based on their materials. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile, while the POM T1 (Sunflower)'s POM top housing produces a deeper and more muted sound. Both materials offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with polycarbonate providing a clearer and more resonant sound, while POM offers a more mellow and soothing typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Aqua's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound. Similarly, the POM T1 (Sunflower)'s POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasingly deep and muted sound profile. Despite the differences in material, both bottom housings provide a rich and satisfying sound when typing, enhancing the overall typing experience with their unique characteristics.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the Dareu Aqua and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) may have different housing materials, the overall typing experience is still likely to be similar in terms of sound quality and tactile feedback, as each material brings its own distinct advantages to the table.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly and potentially reducing fatigue during extended typing or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for the Aqua switch is unknown, so it's hard to determine how much force is needed to fully press the keys. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. While the actuation force for the POM T1 switch is unknown, the heavier bottom out force suggests that it may require a bit more force to trigger keystrokes compared to the Aqua switch. Overall, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Aqua switch, while those seeking a heavier, more tactile feel may lean towards the POM T1 switch.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. A switch's travel distance is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance you feel when you press down on a key. Both of these switches offer a consistent and comfortable travel distance for typing or gaming. Whether you choose the Aqua or the POM T1 (Sunflower), you can expect a similar 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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, giving it a distinctive acoustic profile. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch provides a clean and sharp resonant sound experience, with a punchy and satisfying clack. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, with the Aqua leaning towards a lighter and more distinctive sound, while the POM T1 provides a more pronounced and immersive auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery characteristics, offering a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. On the other hand, the POM T1 switch is described as sharp, accented, snappy, and invigorating, providing a high feedback intensity, distinct tactile bump, and a responsive typing feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Aqua focusing on light, low-impact typing, and the POM T1 providing a more prominent and invigorating tactile feedback.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a switch with a light touch and chirpy sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be a great choice to enhance your typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer maximum tactility and a sharp, resonant sound profile, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the way to go. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on your individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide excellent performance and can deliver similar results in terms of durability and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a super light touch with a unique chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if maximum tactility and a punchy feel are what you seek, the POM T1 (Sunflower) with its sharp tactile bump and clean clack sound could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience you value the most - whether it be light and effortless typing with the Aqua or a more tactile and responsive feel with the POM T1 (Sunflower). Choose wisely based on your personal preferences to enhance your typing experience.
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