Dareu Aqua vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Dareu Aqua and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), both linear switches with unique characteristics. The Dareu Aqua is renowned for its super light 37g actuation force, resulting in a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a resonant and clacky typing experience with the added bonus of a flawless factory lube job, making every keystroke smooth and silky. While the Aqua is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Strawberry Wine excels in providing a high-pitched and satisfying 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), one notable difference is in the top housing. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can significantly impact the typing experience for users, with the Aqua offering a more vibrant and clear sound, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) provides a smoother and calmer typing experience.
Another difference between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. Both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, which is a classic material known for its ability to create a deep and full sound profile. This means that typing on either switch will elicit a similar sound profile characterized by a rounder and duller tone. However, it's worth noting that the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress. Therefore, even though both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the typing experience may still vary based on the overall design and construction of each switch.
Overall, while the Dareu Aqua and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) share a similar bottom housing material in nylon, their top housing materials set them apart in terms of sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua delivers a crisper and more resonant sound, ideal for users who prefer a sharper typing experience, while the POM top housing of the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a deeper and more muted sound for a smoother typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feedback.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua is lighter in terms of actuation force at 37 grams compared to the Strawberry Wine (V2) at 45 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter at 50 grams compared to the unknown bottom out force of the Aqua. This means that the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a slightly heavier actuation force but a lighter bottom out force, providing a different typing experience than the Aqua. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua may be more suitable, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, we find that the Aqua has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.4 mm of the Strawberry Wine (V2). The Aqua's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper and more substantial key press sensation, which may be preferred by those looking for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) with its shorter 3.4 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers and users seeking quicker response times due to its shallower feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a longer, more pronounced key press or a shorter, quicker one.
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 Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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
The Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by a chirpy and clacky sound profile, offering a unique auditory experience that stands out for its light actuation force of 37g. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch boasts resonant and clacky notes, accompanied by a factory lubrication that provides a silky smooth keystroke experience. When it comes to sound, the Aqua switch leans towards a chirpy and clacky tone, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a mix of clacky, resonant, and high-pitched notes. Both switches aim to provide a satisfying auditory feedback to users, with slight differences in the specific sound characteristics they offer.
In terms of feel, the Aqua switch is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, allowing for minimal effort during key presses and reducing finger fatigue. Contrarily, the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as silky, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with minimized resistance. Despite the slight variation in feel between the two switches, they both prioritize offering a comfortable and efficient typing experience. Users can expect a responsive feel with a low-impact typing sensation from the Aqua switch, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch focuses on enhancing smoothness and ease of typing.
Considering the subjective qualities of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, users can expect distinct sound and feel profiles from each switch. The Aqua switch leans towards a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, while the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch offers a mix of clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sounds alongside a silky typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches aiming to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is the way to go. Its 37g actuation force and distinctive typing experience make it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, if you value an impeccable factory lube job and a smooth typing experience with resonant and clacky notes, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch is the one for you. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Strawberry Wine (V2) offers a different but equally satisfying typing experience with its clean and sharp sound profile. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will come down to your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose wisely based on what matters most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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