Dareu Aqua vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves drawn to the unique characteristics of each type. The Dareu Aqua switch is celebrated for its super light 37g actuation force, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a feather-light touch while typing. Its chirpy and clacky sound signature adds personality to each keystroke, appealing to users who enjoy a more playful auditory feedback. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch offers a different experience with its Ly stems, which provide a remarkably smooth typing feel. Although heavier in actuation, the Tomcat’s resonant sound profile caters to users who appreciate depth and a more substantial feedback during typing. Both switches cater to distinct preferences—whether you value a light touch and sound or a smoother, more resonant 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

Dareu Aqua Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Dareu Aqua and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which significantly influences their sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. Polycarbonate is known for its durability and stiffness, which contributes to the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound that both switches exhibit. This shared material allows users to experience a similar auditory feedback, characterized by clarity and resonance when typing. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the visual appeal of the switches, particularly for users who integrate RGB lighting into their setups. With the top housing made of polycarbonate, both switches are designed to deliver a vivid illumination effect that complements any gaming or typing environment.

In contrast, both models incorporate nylon for their bottom housing, leading to a marked difference in the auditory experience they provide. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound differently compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. As a result, switches that utilize nylon for their bottom housing produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, effectively rounding out the overall acoustic performance. This harmonious blend of materials allows the Dareu Aqua and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) to maintain a consistent sound quality across their functionalities while ensuring the user experiences a different type of feedback based on surface contact and material interaction.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in both switches balances their sound profiles, providing a clear upper register paired with a warm, full-bodied lower register. When typing on either switch, the impact of the bottom housing becomes more pronounced during bottom-out sequences, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release. This division of auditory characteristics ensures that both the Dareu Aqua and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) deliver unique yet cohesive typing experiences through their thoughtfully selected materials, making them appealing choices for gamers and typists alike.

Weight

When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces that cater to varied user preferences. The Aqua switch has a relatively lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, particularly during extended use such as in office settings or long gaming sessions. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch requires a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, offering that substantial push feel that some typists and gamers seek for a more tactile experience. While the Aqua's bottom out force remains unknown, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch does provide a bottom out force of 64 grams, indicating a firmer resistance when pressing down fully. Consequently, users looking for a lighter feel may opt for the Aqua, whereas those desiring more resistance and feedback would appreciate the Tomcat (Heavy).

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, we find that the Aqua has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Tomcat (Heavy) measures 3.6 mm. The Aqua's longer travel distance provides a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, which may appeal to users who enjoy a greater depth and tactile feedback. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy), with its shorter travel distance, caters to those who favor faster response times, commonly preferred by gamers. Therefore, if you prioritize a more traditional, hearty depth in your typing experience, the Aqua would be the better choice, while the Tomcat's shorter travel distance may be ideal for those who desire quicker actuation without the depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique acoustic signature that is both chirpy and clacky. Its chirpy characteristic introduces a subtle squeak, making each keypress distinctive and lively. The clacky aspect brings a sharp, crisp sound that adds to the overall auditory feedback, producing an engaging typing experience. This combination makes the Aqua particularly appealing to users who enjoy a vibrant sound profile. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch has a more resonant sound profile, though specific descriptors are not provided. The sound experience with Tomcat switches could be less pronounced than the Aqua's distinct chirp and clack, but further details would be needed to complete this comparison.

In terms of feel, the Aqua switch excels with its extremely light 37g actuation force that makes typing exceptionally effortless. Users will find the Aqua switch easy to press, offering a gentle resistance that minimizes finger fatigue during lengthy typing sessions. The feathery quality of the switch provides a light touch, ensuring comfort whether for gaming or prolonged work. The feel of the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch remains less defined, lacking detailed descriptors. However, if it shares a similar focus on smoothness, it could potentially provide a satisfying experience, albeit one that may differ in weight and responsiveness.

In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch presents a distinctive auditory and tactile experience, characterized by its chirpy and clacky sounds and lightweight feel, which collectively enhance comfort and engagement. On the other hand, while the Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch promises a smooth experience, further specifications regarding its sound and feel are needed for a complete assessment. If you are drawn to a lively sound and effortless keystrokes, the Aqua is likely your best pick. However, if smoothness is your primary criterion, the Tomcat may hold promise, pending more detailed feedback on its characteristics.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch will largely depend on your personal preferences regarding typing feel, sound, and overall usage. If you're someone who enjoys a lighter typing experience and often types or plays games for extended periods, the Aqua's light 37g actuation force combined with its chirpy and clacky sound profile can provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The soft resistance makes it easier on your fingers, reducing fatigue, which is ideal for both long typing sessions and casual gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial key feel and find comfort in the tactile feedback of a heavier switch, the Tomcat (Heavy) with its 64g bottom-out force might suit you better. This switch provides a smooth typing experience that can enhance your accuracy, especially if you type with a firmer touch. Ultimately, your decision should align with your typing style and sound preferences; choose the Aqua for a breezy, spirited typing experience, or go for the Tomcat if you appreciate a sturdier, more deliberate key activation.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Aqua Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more