Dareu Aqua vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Aqua and the Durock White Lotus. The Dareu Aqua is a linear switch with a super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique sound signature that is both chirpy and clacky. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus is a tactile switch designed for typists who value a delicate tactility that is not overpowering. With a perfect balance of feedback, these switches are ideal for work and extended typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus switches offer the added feature of a removable light column for vibrant RGB lighting effects, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your keyboard setup. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
56g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Durock White Lotus both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the White Lotus boasts a modified PC & UPE Blend top housing, offering a unique and premium feel. While both switches may have similar sound profiles due to their polycarbonate top housings, the White Lotus stands out with its distinct material blend.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Aqua and the White Lotus utilize nylon. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material that provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that typing on switches with nylon bottom housings will have a different tactile and auditory experience compared to switches with other materials. While both switches share this characteristic, the specific design and composition of the nylon material may still lead to subtle differences in sound and feel between the Aqua and the White Lotus.
Overall, the combination of housing materials used in the Dareu Aqua and the Durock White Lotus plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and tactile experience of each switch. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, the unique blend of PC & UPE in the White Lotus sets it apart with a premium feel. Additionally, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housings of both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the Aqua and the White Lotus may come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are significant differences to consider. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes compared to the White Lotus, which has a higher actuation force of 46 grams. However, the bottom out force of the White Lotus is 56 grams, indicating a heavier press required to fully depress the key, whereas the bottom out force of the Aqua is not provided. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Aqua may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the White Lotus offers a heavier touch. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference based on typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equally suited for typing and gaming purposes. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch is chosen, allowing users to enjoy a smooth and responsive feel with each keystroke. Whether opting for the Aqua or the White Lotus switch, users can expect to achieve similar results in terms of travel distance and overall typing comfort.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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, providing a distinctive auditory experience with a light 37g actuation force. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch produces a low-pitched sound with a neutral profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone while maintaining a moderate actuation force requirement. Both switches present contrasting sound characteristics, catering to different preferences in terms of typing auditory feedback.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, both the Aqua and White Lotus switches are described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses for a comfortable typing experience. The Aqua switch is also noted for its feathery feel, requiring minimal exertion from the fingers to reduce fatigue during extended typing sessions. In comparison, the White Lotus switch provides a mild and subtle typing experience, falling within a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback. Both switches prioritize typing comfort and ease of use, making them suitable choices for various typing tasks.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel characteristics of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences to users. The Aqua switch stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound profile, paired with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch delivers a low-pitched and neutral sound, with an easy-to-press and mild tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal sound and feel preferences, ensuring that users can select the switch that best aligns with their typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, consider your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light actuation force and a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, along with the option for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve. Choose wisely and enjoy the satisfying click-clack of your mechanical keyboard!
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