Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron Weightlessness
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Weightlessness switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the benefits of various types to suit their typing preferences. The Dareu Aqua linear switch is an appealing option for those who prefer a lighter touch, boasting an incredibly low actuation force of just 37g. This switch is celebrated for its chirpy and clacky sound signature, making it a fun and engaging choice for users seeking a responsive typing experience without much effort. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch provides a more grounded experience with its subtle to moderate tactile feedback, catering to individuals who appreciate a pronounced bump in their keystrokes. Its balanced sound profile adds to its appeal, ensuring a satisfying auditory experience without being too loud. Ultimately, individuals may lean towards the Aqua for a light, airy feel or the Weightlessness for a more tactile sensation. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Weightlessness offer distinct differences in their top housing materials, which significantly influence the auditory experience of each switch. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This characteristic is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffer nature that facilitates a clearer resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetic appeal of RGB lighting, making it an appealing choice for gamers and typists who value both performance and visual flair. Conversely, the Weightlessness utilizes a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its ability to generate a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs sound to a greater degree, resulting in a rounder and mellower auditory experience. This fundamental material difference shapes the overall sound profile of each switch.
In examining the bottom housings of both switches, we find a noteworthy similarity; both the Aqua and Weightlessness utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This commonality lends itself to a deeper and richer sound when typing, as the softer nylon material effectively dampens vibrations and sound waves. Consequently, both switches will provide a satisfying tactile experience due to the nylon's absorption qualities, leading to a duller bottom-out sound. Despite the differences in top housings, the compatibility of nylon in both bottom housings ensures that users will still experience a similar foundational sound at the point of key actuation. This creates a synergy where the lower pitch and fuller sound quality produced by the nylon balances with the distinct higher pitch associated with the polycarbonate top in the Aqua.
Ultimately, the combination of materials in both switches leads to a differentiated but complementary acoustic experience. While the Aqua offers a bright and responsive top-end sound due to its polycarbonate housing, the Weightlessness provides a warmer and more subdued auditory profile with its nylon top. However, both switches come together at the bottom housing, where the nylon material ensures a consistent deeper sound quality upon key activation. For users looking to achieve a well-rounded and satisfying typing experience, the decision between these switches may boil down to personal preference regarding the sound and feel during both actuation and release. In essence, a user will find both unique traits in each switch while still enjoying a familiar deeper sound from the nylon bottom housing commonality.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, a notable difference lies in their actuation forces. The Aqua requires a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, which may appeal to users who prefer a less strenuous typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged use in work or gaming situations. In contrast, the Weightlessness switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams, catering to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches have unspecified bottom-out forces, so we cannot make direct comparisons in that area. Overall, the Aqua is the lighter option, suitable for users looking for ease during long sessions, while the Weightlessness provides a firmer feel for those who appreciate a stronger tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch, the Aqua features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Weightlessness comes in at a shorter 3.4 mm. This makes the Aqua the longer travel option, providing a more pronounced key press that some users may find satisfying for its deeper feel. In contrast, the shorter 3.4 mm travel distance of the Weightlessness switch is designed for those who favor quicker response times, making it particularly appealing to gamers. As the trend leans toward shorter travel distances for enhanced speed and responsiveness, the Weightlessness may be preferable for users seeking an agile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for key depth and the desired typing or gaming 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 Gateron Weightlessness has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Weightlessness for $5.50.
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 presents a combination of chirpy and clacky qualities. The "chirpy" aspect introduces a slight squeak, lending a unique acoustic character that sets it apart from many other switches. The "clacky" side contributes a sharp and snappy auditory response, characterized by a crisp and percussive sound whenever a key is engaged. Notably, the overall sound profile can vary with different keyboard builds, including the choice of keycaps, but users can expect a distinctive aural experience with the Aqua. On the other hand, the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch does not possess a described sound profile, suggesting a more muted or balanced auditory experience. Without additional descriptors, it is challenging to compare its sound directly to the Aqua.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch boasts a super light actuation force of 37g, making it remarkably easy to press. This minimal resistance allows for an effortless typing experience, significantly reducing finger fatigue during extended use, whether for gaming, work, or other typing tasks. The switch is often described as feathery, emphasizing its low exertion requirement that enhances comfort over long periods. In contrast, the tactile feel of the Gateron Weightlessness switch remains unknown based on the information provided. This lack of detail prevents a direct comparison in terms of tactile feedback, which is an important quality for many users.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch excels in both sound and feel, providing a distinctive and comfortable typing experience characterized by its light actuation force and unique auditory qualities. The chirpy and clacky sound signature of the Aqua can greatly enhance the typing experience for users who appreciate those acoustic characteristics. In contrast, the Gateron Weightlessness switch remains undefined in terms of sound and tactile feel, which leaves some uncertainty when comparing these two switches. Users with a preference for lighter switches may find that the Aqua fulfills their needs well, while the Weightlessness could potentially suit those looking for a more moderate tactile sensation. Overall, while the Aqua presents a strong case, opting between these switches may ultimately depend on personal preference or the specific tactile feedback one desires.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your choice between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Weightlessness tactile switch will largely depend on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a lighter touch and are looking for a switch that requires minimal effort to actuate, the Aqua would be an excellent choice. Its super light 37g actuation force allows for effortless typing, making it ideal for long gaming sessions or marathon writing sessions, where comfort and speed are essential. Plus, the chirpy and clacky sound profile provides a uniquely satisfying auditory feedback that may enhance your typing experience, especially if you appreciate a more lively sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a more balanced tactile experience that's not quite as overt as other tactile switches, the Weightlessness might be more suited for you. With its subtle to moderate tactile feedback, this switch offers an experience that strikes a good balance between responsiveness and comfort, making it versatile for various tasks, from typing to casual gaming. The silent yet gratifying sound profile is perfect for quieter environments or collaborative workspaces where noise may be a concern. Ultimately, your selection should reflect your priorities: go for the Aqua if you crave speed and sound, and opt for the Weightlessness if you seek comfort and a touch of tactility.
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