Dareu Aqua vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Aqua and the TKC Tangerine mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Dareu Aqua offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature with its super light 37g actuation force, making it a great choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine boasts an incredibly smooth feel and a high-pitched clack, thanks to the UHWMPE housings that set it apart from other switches. While the Aqua is easy-to-press and feathery, the Tangerine is described as frictionless, buttery, and polished. 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
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the TKC Tangerine, it is clear that both switches prioritize sound quality and resonance. The Aqua utilizes a polycarbonate top housing known for its sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile, while the Tangerine opts for a UHWMPE top housing that provides a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks. While both materials offer distinctive sound characteristics, the use of polycarbonate in the Aqua and UHWMPE in the Tangerine ensures that users will experience a clear and vibrant typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Aqua features a nylon bottom housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. On the other hand, the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE bottom housing, which also offers a bright sound signature and resonant clacks when typing. Despite the differences in material, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a unique sound profile that is crisp, clear, and satisfying to the user.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Aqua and the TKC Tangerine ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While the Aqua features a combination of polycarbonate and nylon for its housing materials, resulting in a mixture of sharpness and depth in sound, the Tangerine offers a consistent bright sound signature with both top and bottom housings made of UHWMPE. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to provide a premium typing experience with a focus on sound quality and resonance.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force for the Aqua switch is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Aqua switch may be more suitable, as the lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the TKC Tangerine switch with its heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distance, both switches offer a consistent typing experience with the same amount of travel required to actuate the keys. This means that whether you choose the Aqua or the Tangerine switch, you can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and travel distance. This similarity allows for a seamless transition between the two switches, as both offer the same travel distance for a smooth typing experience.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 per 10 switches.
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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sounds, setting it apart from other switches in the market. The light actuation force of 37g contributes to this distinctive sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience for users who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch produces a high-pitched sound when pressed, adding a sharp and crisp element to each keystroke. The UHWMPE housings of the Tangerine switches contribute to their smooth feel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Regarding the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The feathery feel of the Aqua switch further contributes to a comfortable typing experience, making it suitable for various tasks such as gaming, schoolwork, or professional use. Conversely, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is known for its frictionless and buttery feel, providing users with an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience. The polished finish of the Tangerine switch adds to the overall sleek and refined typing sensation, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Overall, while the Dareu Aqua and TKC Tangerine linear switches offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the unique chirpy and clacky sound of the Aqua switch or the high-pitched sound of the Tangerine switch. Similarly, users can opt for the easy-to-press and feathery feel of the Aqua switch or the frictionless and buttery feel of the Tangerine switch based on their typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent options for those looking to enhance their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, consider the key factors of actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force and value an incredibly smooth typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should align with your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you aim to achieve.
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