Dareu Aqua vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch stand out as unique options. The Aqua switch offers a 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 Purple Sakura switch boasts a snappy response and a buttery downstroke that is both pronounced and mild, with a neutral sound signature. While the Aqua switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch and distinct sound, the Purple Sakura switch caters to users looking for a tactile switch with a balanced tactility and a luxurious 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and Sarokeys Purple Sakura both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting effects. While both switches share this key housing material, the differences may lie in their bottom housings. The Aqua utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura also features a nylon bottom housing, offering a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the similarities in their top housing material, the difference in bottom housing between the Dareu Aqua and Sarokeys Purple Sakura may impact the overall typing experience. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings mean that the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing material, which is nylon for both switches. This means that both switches will provide a typing experience that is deeper and fuller in sound due to the nylon material's softer nature. However, the impact on the sound when releasing a key will be more pronounced by the top housing material, which is also polycarbonate for both switches.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua and Sarokeys Purple Sakura offer similar sound profiles in terms of their polycarbonate top housings but differ in their bottom housing material, which affects the overall typing experience. Both switches provide a crisp and clear sound when pressing keys, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. However, the use of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches, creating a typing experience that is characterized by a combination of sharpness and depth in sound. Overall, while there are subtle differences between the two switches, they ultimately offer comparable results in terms of sound quality and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile 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, while the Purple Sakura requires a heavier force of 50 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua's force is unknown, while the Purple Sakura has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Purple Sakura is both heavier to actuate and to bottom out compared to the Aqua switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Aqua switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Purple Sakura switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Aqua being on the longer end and the Purple Sakura being slightly shorter. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Purple Sakura, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Aqua. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying travel distance that caters to different preferences, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for all users.
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 Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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 sounds, giving it a distinct acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of situations and preferences. The choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lively and sharp sound (Aqua) or a more mellow and versatile sound (Purple Sakura).
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Aqua switch is praised for being easy-to-press and feathery, requiring minimal force for key presses and offering a light and comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the Purple Sakura switch is described as buttery, mild, and snappy, providing a smooth keystroke experience with a gentle and responsive feel. Both switches excel in their own right, with the Aqua focusing on lightness and ease of typing, while the Purple Sakura offers a balance of tactile feedback and smoothness.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. Those who prioritize a light touch and unique sound may lean towards the Aqua, while individuals seeking a tactile and smooth typing experience may prefer the Purple Sakura. Ultimately, both switches offer top-notch quality and performance, ensuring that users will achieve satisfying results with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force and sound signature. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy a chirpy and clacky sound signature, then the Aqua switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and a tactile switch with a snappy response and buttery downstroke, then the Purple Sakura switch would be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you when typing.
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