Dareu Aqua vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice often hinges on personal preferences for tactile feel and sound. The Dareu Aqua linear switch is notable for its super light 37g actuation force, making it an appealing option for typists and gamers who prefer a feather-light touch and enjoy a chirpy and clacky sound signature that adds character to their typing experience. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch offers a more subdued auditory profile with a full PA12 housing and T5 stem, providing a stable and relatively deep sound that is perfect for those who seek a more grounded and less abrasive typing experience. While the Aqua caters to users drawn to a lively and effortless keystroke, the SU switch is tailored for individuals desiring a balanced and muted feedback. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the HMX SU switches differ significantly in their top housing materials, which affects the overall sound profile produced during use. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and translucency. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, making it particularly suitable for setups utilizing RGB lighting. The clarity and resonance provided by polycarbonate enhance the auditory experience, offering users a dynamic interaction with their switches, especially during key releases. In contrast, the HMX SU utilizes a nylon top housing, which introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder auditory response, thus catering to users who prefer a more muted keystroke experience. The choice of material in the top housing is crucial as it significantly shapes the responsiveness and tonal quality of the switch when keys are released.
Interestingly, both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a similar auditory depth and fullness when keys are pressed down. The nylon material in the bottom housing of the Aqua and the SU enhances the typing experience by absorbing sound and creating a more rounded bottom-out feel. This uniformity in bottom housing material means that regardless of the differences in their top housing, both switches will elicit similar tactile and auditory sensations when the keys are actuated. Therefore, while the Aqua may deliver a more resonant sound during key releases due to its polycarbonate top, both switches will offer a deep and plush sound when pressed, showcasing the effectiveness of nylon in providing a satisfying keystroke experience.
Summarizing the differences in the materials used for the top housing reveals a layered complexity in sound production for each switch. The Aqua's polycarbonate top allows for a sharper and brighter sound profile, ideal for users who appreciate clarity in their keystrokes, especially in vibrant RGB setups. On the other hand, the HMX SU, with its nylon top, presents a more subdued auditory experience. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches yield a rich bottom-out sound effect, emphasizing the rounded characteristics associated with nylon. Thus, while the switches deliver distinctly different auditory experiences while typing, the commonality of their bottom housing material allows for a consistent depth of sound across both models.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces. The Dareu Aqua requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it a suitable choice for users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience for prolonged work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the HMX SU has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, appealing to those who favor a more substantial feel while typing. In terms of bottom out force, the HMX SU offers a definitive weight at 50 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Aqua is unknown. This means that while both switches may deliver a satisfying typing experience, users looking for a lighter overall switch should lean towards the Aqua, while those desiring a firmer response and feedback might prefer the HMX SU. Ultimately, the difference in actuation forces highlights how the Aqua is designed for comfort over extended use, whereas the SU caters to those who enjoy a stronger tactile sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, the differences are quite pronounced. The Aqua has a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with traditional preferences for deeper key presses, while the HMX SU features a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This shorter distance can provide faster response times, making it an appealing choice for gamers who prioritize quick actions and efficiency. However, for those who enjoy a more tactile and substantial feel while typing or gaming, the Aqua's longer travel distance may be more satisfying. Ultimately, if you're seeking rapid responsiveness, the SU's 3.6 mm travel may suit you better, but if you prefer a more pronounced depth, the Aqua's 4 mm travel distance is the better option.
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 HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 acoustic experience characterized by a chirpy and clacky profile. The chirpy aspect introduces a slight squeak, which adds a unique flavor to its sound signature, while the clacky quality ensures that each key press produces a crisp, bright, and percussive note. This combination makes the Aqua particularly appealing for those who appreciate a more engaging auditory feedback while typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX SU switch’s sound profile remains less defined, as there are no specific descriptors available. However, the full PA12 housing may contribute to a more subdued acoustic experience compared to the more vibrant audio of the Aqua, though this will vary based on accompanying components like the keyboard chassis and keycaps.
Regarding feel, the Aqua switch excels with its very light 37g actuation force, making it incredibly easy to press. Users can expect a gentle resistance that translates into an effortless typing experience, significantly reducing finger fatigue, even during extended sessions. This feathery lightness promotes a comfortable and responsive feel, ideal for both typists and gamers looking for an efficient key response. The specifics of the HMX SU’s tactile feedback or resistance are unknown, leaving its behavioral characteristics in this regard unexplored.
In summary, if you appreciate a keyboard that feels light under your fingers and produces an engaging sound profile, the Dareu Aqua linear switch presents a compelling choice with its chirpy and clacky tones alongside an easy and feathery feel. The HMX SU linear switch, while it offers a full PA12 housing potentially conducive to a deeper sound profile, lacks detailed descriptions regarding its auditory and tactile qualities. As such, the Aqua switch stands out for those seeking an immediate and dynamic typing experience, while the SU’s qualities remain less certain.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately hinges on your preferences for actuation force, sound signature, and overall typing experience. If you prefer a light touch with distinct auditory feedback, the Aqua switch is ideal for you, thanks to its ultra-light 37g actuation force and its unique chirpy and clacky sound profile. This makes it perfect for scenarios where you require minimal resistance to maintain comfort during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you lean toward a switch that offers a more substantial tactile experience with a soft but noticeable bottom-out force, the HMX SU linear switch might be more suitable. Its 50g bottom-out force, paired with a deep sound profile, gives a satisfying feedback that many find reassuring, especially during both typing and gaming. Therefore, assess your typing style and the atmosphere you aim to create with your keyboard: for a lively and effortless experience, go with the Aqua; for a more grounded and fuller sound with a bit more force, the SU is your best bet.
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