Dareu Aqua vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua and KTT Wine Red both offer unique characteristics worth considering. The Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, delivering a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press, making it a distinctive choice for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red switches offer a pillowy light feel and a deep, rich sound profile that is bassy and low-pitched. Each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles, so it ultimately depends on what you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the KTT Wine Red both feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboards. However, the Aqua differs with a nylon bottom housing that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound of the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing.
The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings in the Dareu Aqua and KTT Wine Red impacts the overall sound and feel of the switches. The qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing of the Aqua are felt when typing on the switches, as it contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Wine Red adds to the sharper and crisper sound profile experienced while typing. When pressing down on a key, the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is noticeable, while the top housing's impact on the sound when releasing a key becomes more apparent. This difference in housing materials allows for a unique typing experience with each keyboard.
In conclusion, while both the Dareu Aqua and the KTT Wine Red share polycarbonate top housings that produce similar sound profiles, the distinction lies in their bottom housings. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, creating a slightly different typing experience compared to the crisper sound of the Wine Red's polycarbonate bottom housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards will depend on the desired sound and feel preferences when typing, with the distinct housing materials contributing to a unique typing experience for each keyboard.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Aqua boasts a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Wine Red requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 44 grams. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Aqua's force is unknown, whereas the Wine Red has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. This means that the Aqua may provide a smoother and quicker typing experience due to its lighter actuation force, while the Wine Red offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, but with the Aqua being lighter and the Wine Red being slightly heavier, users can choose the switch that best suits their typing style and preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it is clear that both offer a similar experience in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. With a travel distance of 4 mm for both switches, users can expect consistent results in terms of keystroke depth and feedback. Whether typing on the Dareu Aqua or the KTT Wine Red, the travel distance remains the same, providing a familiar and comfortable typing experience for users. Ultimately, the travel distance of both switches contributes to a smooth and efficient typing process, ensuring that users can enjoy a consistent feel across different keyboards.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, providing a distinct auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches in the market. The light actuation force of 37g contributes to the light and crisp sound produced when typing on these switches. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch provides a satisfyingly deep and rich sound profile with a pillowy light feel during typing. The bassy and low-pitched characteristics of the Wine Red switches create a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to the Aqua switches. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. The feathery sensation of these switches adds to the typing experience by reducing finger fatigue and providing a comfortable typing feel for extended periods. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the KTT Wine Red linear switch. However, based on the description of a pillowy light type feel, it can be inferred that the Wine Red switches likely offer a cushioned and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch offer distinct sound profiles and potentially different tactile feels. The Aqua switch excels in providing a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Wine Red switch offers a deep and rich sound with a pillowy light feel, catering to users who seek a more cushioned typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities, and the choice between them will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force of 37g and enjoy a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile, then the Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 55g and appreciate a pillowy light typing feel with a deep and rich sound profile, then the Wine Red switch would be more suited to your preferences. Consider the type of sound and feel you enjoy most when typing, as well as the force required for activation, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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