Dareu Aqua vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch. The Dareu Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, offering a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro provides a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and acute, crisp clacks, making it a comfortable choice for long typing sessions. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and appeal to different preferences. 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
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Jwick Taro, both keyboards feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a more resonant sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housings of both keyboards produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both the Dareu Aqua and the Jwick Taro featuring polycarbonate top housings that provide similar sound profiles, their nylon bottom housings offer different typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Aqua and Taro impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with nylon's softness creating a deeper and fuller typing sound. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials means that the typing experience on these keyboards will be influenced differently depending on whether you are pressing down on the keys or letting go.
In summary, while both the Dareu Aqua and the Jwick Taro share the benefits of polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and clear sound profile, their nylon bottom housings create distinct typing experiences. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper sound profile, while the Taro's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these keyboards will depend on personal preference for the sound and feel of the typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Jwick Taro tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Taro has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Aqua is not provided. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Aqua switch may be more suitable. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Taro switch with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Aqua offers a more traditional travel distance, which may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial feel when typing. On the other hand, the Taro provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times particularly favored by gamers. Both switches offer a different typing experience, with the Aqua providing a deeper press and the Taro offering a quicker, more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing style.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 is known for its unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, offering a distinct auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, providing a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is characterized as having a buttery and stepped feel, offering a smooth and uniform typing sensation with a gentle tactility that enhances the overall typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its light actuation force and unique sound signature, making it a favored choice for those who prefer a lighter touch and distinctive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a medium level of tactility and a cozy sound profile. Both switches have their own strengths and are suitable for different preferences, so choosing between them would ultimately depend on individual typing preferences and needs. If a user prefers a light and chirpy switch, the Aqua would be the way to go, while those looking for a more neutral and comfortable typing experience may lean towards the Taro.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you enjoy a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, then the Aqua switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force and a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility and crisp clacks, then the Taro switch may be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what aspects of a keyboard switch are most important to you and align with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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