Dareu Aqua vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch stand out as unique options. The Dareu Aqua's super light 37g actuation force provides a chirpy and clacky sound signature, appealing to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump, along with a muted sound profile. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference - light and easy-to-press with the Aqua, or buttery and polished with the Silent Brown. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Silent Brown, it is evident that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, their differences lie in the nylon bottom housing. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Brown's nylon bottom housing offers the same qualities, resulting in a similar sound experience to the Aqua.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of both switches provides a consistent sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound. This material's stiffness creates a resonant sound, perfect for those seeking a clear typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This combination of housing materials in each switch ensures a well-rounded sound experience that will cater to different preferences.
Overall, while the Dareu Aqua and TTC Silent Brown have similar polycarbonate top housings that offer a sharp and clear sound profile, their differences lie in the nylon bottom housings, which affect the overall sound experience of the switches. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the Silent Brown provides a similar sound profile due to its own nylon bottom housing. Whether one prefers a sharper or duller sound profile, both switches offer a unique typing experience that showcases the impact of housing materials on sound quality.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches do not have a specified bottom out force, making it difficult to compare in terms of bottoming out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Silent Brown switch. When it comes to weight, the Aqua switch would be favored by individuals looking for a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or gaming sessions, while the Silent Brown switch would appeal to those who prefer a heavier force for a more pronounced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Aqua switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more traditional and deeper key press feel compared to the Silent Brown switch. For those who prefer a deeper and more substantial key press, the Aqua switch may be the better option. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch's slightly shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers or individuals seeking a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding key press depth and responsiveness.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown 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 offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sounds, adding a distinctiveness to your typing experience. The chirpy sound gives a hint of whimsicality, while the clacky sound provides a sharp and defined keypress feedback. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch provides a more subdued and muted sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. The muted sound reduces the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards, creating a more serene environment during typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more lively and distinctive sound or a quieter and more understated one.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is characterized by its incredibly light actuation force, allowing for easy and effortless key presses. The feathery touch of these switches reduces finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions, enhancing overall typing comfort. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown switch offers a buttery and polished typing experience, with a smooth and uniform keystroke sensation. The light-medium resistance of these switches strikes a balance between comfort and tactile feedback, providing a pleasant typing feel without being overly pronounced. Depending on your preference for either a feathery and light typing experience or a buttery and polished one, you can choose the switch that best suits your needs.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch and a more distinctive sound, the Aqua switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a comfortable and muted typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump, the Silent Brown switch would be the ideal option. Both switches provide their own unique characteristics, so regardless of your choice, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you value a super light actuation force and enjoy a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Dareu Aqua switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, a satisfying tactile bump, and a muted sound profile, the TTC Silent Brown switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences to ensure the most enjoyable and efficient typing experience.
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