Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Red Panda offer unique experiences for users. The Dareu Aqua is a linear switch with 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 Outemu Red Panda is a tactile switch that offers a light-medium amount of tactility, along with a bassier bottom-out sound and a higher-pitched top-out sound. While the Aqua is best for those who prefer a lighter touch and distinctive sound, the Red Panda caters to users who enjoy a mix of tactility and unique sound profiles. 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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Red Panda feature polycarbonate top housings, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in switch housings is known to enhance clarity and resonance due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. The similar design of the top housing between these two switches suggests that users can expect comparable sound profiles and aesthetic features when using either the Aqua or the Red Panda.
In contrast, the Aqua utilizes a nylon bottom housing while the Red Panda also incorporates nylon in its bottom housing material. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, making it a classic choice for switch housings. Despite having different bottom housing materials, both the Aqua and the Red Panda offer users a unique typing experience with their respective nylon bottom housings, further diversifying the sound profile and tactile feel of the switches.
The division of different housing materials between the top and bottom sections of a switch impacts the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a more nuanced typing experience, as users can experience a combination of sharpness and resonance from the top housing and depth and fullness from the bottom housing, offering a dynamic and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch which has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Aqua is unknown, while the Red Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that the Red Panda switch requires more force to bottom out compared to the Aqua switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua switch may be more suitable, while the Red Panda switch would be ideal for those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Both switches provide different options for individuals based on their preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Red Panda has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Aqua. More traditionally, a 4.0mm travel distance is common, whereas a 3.0mm travel distance is shallower. The Aqua switch might provide a more substantial and deeper press due to its longer travel distance, which some users might prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda's shorter travel distance could make it a popular choice for gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sounds, creating a distinctive typing experience. The chirpy sound adds a hint of squeakiness, setting it apart from other switches, while the clacky sound provides a sharp and percussive tone. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch produces a bassier, thocky bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. The thocky sound is deep and satisfying, offering a different auditory experience compared to the Aqua. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue. The minimal force required to activate these switches enhances typing comfort and responsiveness, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch provides a mild tactile experience that falls in a safe, middle-ground zone. While it may not offer the same lightness as the Aqua switch, it provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Whether you prefer a feather-light touch or a more moderate tactile feel, both switches cater to different typing preferences.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to a variety of preferences. The Aqua switch stands out for its chirpy and clacky sound signature, along with its easy-to-press and feathery feel. In contrast, the Red Panda switch provides a thocky sound and a mild tactile feel that may appeal to those looking for a different typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, and choosing between them will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a super light and unique typing experience with a distinctive sound profile, the Dareu Aqua linear switch with its 37g actuation force might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium tactile switch with a satisfying bassier sound profile, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch with a 60g bottom out force could be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and actuation force when choosing between these two switches.
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