Dareu Aqua vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua stands out as a linear switch with a super light 37g actuation force, offering a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch that provides a more subtle typing experience with a gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile. The Aqua is best known for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, while the Duck is praised for its neutral, mild, buttery, and polished qualities. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound. 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
58g
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
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
Polycarbonate
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 SP-Star Duck, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing for aesthetic purposes.
However, where the Aqua differs is in its nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience for users. The split between the two housing materials in the Aqua allows for a combination of qualities to be felt and heard when typing on the keyboard, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released.
In essence, while both the Dareu Aqua and the SP-Star Duck share a polycarbonate top housing that offers similar sound characteristics, the difference in their bottom housing materials sets them apart in terms of the overall typing experience. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, offering a different tactile feedback compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards may come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is clear that the Aqua is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams. On the other hand, the Duck is the heavier choice with a bottom out force of 58 grams. The actuation force for the Duck switch is unknown. Those looking for a more lightweight typing experience may prefer the Aqua switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Duck switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Thus, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a similar typing experience. Having an equal travel distance can provide consistent feedback and feel across both switches, making them comparable in this aspect.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 mix of chirpy and clacky sounds, adding a distinctive touch to typing sessions. The chirpy sound gives a subtle squeak, while the clacky sound is sharp and snappy, creating a crisp and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a clean and crispy sound profile, with a neutral tone that is suitable for various typing environments. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a feathery touch that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, with a buttery and polished feel that ensures smooth and fluid key presses. These switches strike a balance between comfort and ease of use, making them appealing to a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua switch provides a chirpy and clacky sound along with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, catering to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a clean and crispy sound profile along with a mild, buttery, and polished feel, making it ideal for users seeking a subtle tactile typing experience. Depending on individual preferences and typing habits, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing environment in which they will be used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who prefers a super light actuation force and enjoys a chirpy and clacky sound profile, the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a more subtle tactile typing experience with a medium actuation force and a clean, crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound, and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences, so it's important to choose the one that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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