Dareu Aqua vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear stand out as two compelling options to consider. The Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound, with a silky smooth type feel. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiffer nature of the plastic. This material is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, as its translucency allows the light to shine through. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the difference lies in their bottom housings. The Aqua uses a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear also utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering similar sound qualities to the Aqua.
When it comes to the bottom housings of the Dareu Aqua and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, they both feature nylon materials that elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softness of nylon allows for more sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in bottom housing material means that both switches will likely provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound characteristics. However, it is important to note that while the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when a key is released.
In summary, both the Dareu Aqua and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear boast polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, as well as nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound experience. While the top housings may have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key, the qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent during the pressing down of a key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, the Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's unknown force. The Aqua's bottom out force is not specified, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it the heavier option. This means that the Aqua switch may provide a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more substantial push feel for those who prefer a heavier key press. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua switch, while those who enjoy a heavier push may opt for the Semi-Silent Linear switch for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch is 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Aqua switch has a slightly longer travel distance, making it the longer option compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch. The difference in travel distance may not seem significant, but it can impact the overall feel and responsiveness of the keyboard. If you are looking for a switch with a quicker response time, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear may be more suitable for you due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a bit more depth and tactile feedback, the Dareu Aqua linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches can provide a comfortable typing experience, but the decision between the two will depend on individual preferences for 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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 distinctive chirpy and clacky sound signature, providing a unique typing experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch produces a more subdued and neutral sound profile, with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. The Semi-Silent Linear switch is designed to offer a more subtle and quiet typing experience compared to the Aqua switch. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light actuation force that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished, providing a more gentle typing experience with super responsiveness, smooth keystrokes, and reduced friction for a sleek typing sensation. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing experience but with slightly different qualities that cater to individual preferences.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch excels in providing a light touch with a chirpy and clacky sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a unique and more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a quieter typing experience with a smooth and responsive feel, suitable for users who value a more subdued sound profile and gentle key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both options provide quality performance in their respective characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and value a semi-silent switch with a silky smooth feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard. Both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and needs.
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