Dareu Aqua vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch. The Aqua switch is known for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile with pronounced tactility, striking a perfect balance between feedback and comfort. Both switches have their own strengths and unique characteristics, making them appealing options for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you 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
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, both keyboards feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the keyboard. While both keyboards share this similar top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material, with the Aqua featuring a nylon bottom housing and the Viola Tricolor also utilizing nylon for its bottom housing.
The nylon bottom housing of both keyboards contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when pressing down on the switches, providing a different typing experience compared to the crisper sound profile produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the Aqua and the Viola Tricolor cater to users who prefer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience, with the nylon bottom housing playing a significant role in enhancing the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Dareu Aqua and the Haimu Viola Tricolor may differ in material, both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, while the top housing material influences the sound when letting go of a key. This split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that caters to a variety of user preferences, whether they prioritize a sharper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound while typing. Ultimately, both keyboards offer a unique combination of housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience for users seeking a tactile and satisfying keyboard.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, whose actuation force is unknown. However, the Viola Tricolor has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Aqua is not specified. Those who prefer a light touch when typing may lean towards the Aqua switch for its lower actuation force, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Viola Tricolor switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. This makes the Aqua slightly longer in travel distance compared to the Viola Tricolor. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Aqua being on the more standard side and the Viola Tricolor offering a slightly shorter travel distance. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Viola Tricolor for its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Aqua. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches 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 Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 sound signatures, creating a distinct auditory experience for users who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile that adds character to typing, without being overly tactile. Both switches offer different sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sound.
When it comes to feel, the Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering minimal resistance and light actuation force for a comfortable typing experience with reduced finger fatigue. In comparison, the Viola Tricolor switch provides an invigorating and accented tactile feedback that is not overwhelming but still offers a satisfying typing sensation. Both switches provide distinct tactile feedback, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing feel.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua switch stands out with its light actuation force and chirpy, clacky sound, the Viola Tricolor switch provides a thuddy sound profile and a balanced tactile feedback. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can select either switch to enhance their typing experience. With both switches offering different but noteworthy qualities, users can expect to achieve satisfying results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light and chirpy sound with minimal resistance during key presses, the Aqua switch with its unique 37g actuation force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thuddy and punchy sound profile with a balanced tactile feedback that is not overly pronounced, the Viola Tricolor switch with its 63.5g bottom out force may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these switches boils down to personal preference in sound, feel, and typing style, so choose the switch that aligns best with your typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
