Dareu Aqua vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, it all comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. The Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press and feels feathery. On the other hand, the U4Tx offers a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out, providing a sharp, satisfying tactile bump that is both bassy and muted. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to individual taste and typing 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
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Gazzew U4Tx, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their differing top housing materials. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing delivers a rich and deep sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Aqua results in a more resonant sound, perfect for those who prefer a higher-pitched typing experience. In contrast, the U4Tx's boba plastic blend offers a softer sound, ideal for users looking for a deeper and fuller typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both switches offer qualities that enhance the overall sound profile of the typing experience. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing also delivers a rich and deep sound due to its softness. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound, whereas the boba plastic blend in the U4Tx contributes to a softer and deeper typing experience.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Gazzew U4Tx differ, they both contribute to a unique and satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer the sharper and crisper sound of the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing or the rich and deep sound of the U4Tx's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, both switches offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Similarly, the nylon and boba plastic blend bottom housings of these switches provide a deeper and fuller sound, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, the U4Tx has a heavier bottom out force of 62.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Aqua switch is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua switch for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the U4Tx switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4Tx, offering a more traditional feel. Gamers may prefer the Aqua for its longer travel distance, allowing for a more deliberate key press. On the other hand, the U4Tx provides a slightly shorter travel distance, which may be favored by those looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their travel distances, and ultimately the choice between them will depend on personal preference 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 Gazzew U4Tx comes in at $6.50 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sounds, providing a distinct auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch boasts a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. The U4Tx switches give a satisfying tactile bump with each press, creating a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. While the Aqua switch may offer a chirpy and clacky sound, the U4Tx switch provides a more sophisticated and refined auditory experience, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a cleaner and more elegant sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Aqua switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature and feathery touch, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This makes typing effortless and comfortable with a low-impact feel. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch offers a sharp tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity, allowing each keypress to be distinctly felt. This intense tactile feedback enhances the typing experience, giving a satisfying sensation with each press. The U4Tx switch provides a different tactile feel compared to the Aqua switch, making it suitable for those who prefer a sharper and more pronounced tactile sensation.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua switch provides a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the U4Tx switch delivers a refined and sophisticated sound profile with a sharp tactile bump, offering a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Whether selecting the Aqua or U4Tx switch, users can expect a premium typing experience tailored to their specific sound and tactile preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, your decision should primarily be based on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a chirpy, clacky sound signature, then the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a medium actuation force with a refined, bassy sound profile and a sharp tactile bump, then the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by the typing experience you desire, whether it's a light and chirpy feel or a more pronounced tactile feedback with a deep sound profile. Choose wisely based on what best fits your typing style and preferences.
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