Dareu Aqua vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch stand out as unique options. The Aqua switch offers a super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear switch provides a smooth and high-pitched typing experience, with a transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing for maximum RGB lighting customization. While the Aqua switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', 'Feathery', the WS Aurora Clear switch is categorized as 'Buttery', 'Mild', 'High-pitched', 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique qualities that appeal to different 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
53g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
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
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. This results in a more clear and resonant sound overall. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the keyboards. The similarities in their top housing materials ensure that users can expect a similar sound experience when typing on either of these switches.
On the other hand, the housing materials for the bottom of the switches differ between the two models. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing generates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate top housing. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear utilizes UHWMPE for its bottom housing, resulting in a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. This newer material offers a unique sound experience for users compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Aqua.
When comparing the overall sound experience of the Dareu Aqua and Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear, it is important to consider how the qualities of each housing material are distributed throughout the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Aqua and polycarbonate and UHWMPE in the WS Aurora Clear will create distinct typing experiences for users, with each switch offering unique sound profiles based on the materials used in their housing.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear's heavier actuation force of 53 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom-out force, but the WS Aurora Clear is described as medium-heavy at 63.5 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those looking for a more substantial push feel may opt for the WS Aurora Clear. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom-out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the WS Aurora Clear. In general, a shorter travel distance is preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more robust and satisfying key press. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, so you can expect similar results in terms of feel and key action, with the Aqua offering a slightly longer press compared to the WS Aurora Clear. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the user.
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 Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00 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 sounds, providing a distinct auditory experience for users who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch delivers a high-pitched typing experience with a smooth and crisp sound profile. While the Aqua produces chirpy and clacky tones, the WS Aurora Clear focuses on a higher-pitched sound. Both switches offer different sound characteristics that cater to varying user preferences, allowing for customization based on individual sound preferences and keyboard setup.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light and effortless typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch is described as buttery, mild, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing sensation with minimal friction. The Aqua switch emphasizes an easy and comfortable typing feel, while the WS Aurora Clear offers a seamless and uniform keystroke experience, catering to users looking for a buttery and polished typing experience. Both switches provide different tactile sensations, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing feel.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch offer distinct characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Aqua switch excels in providing a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, while the WS Aurora Clear switch delivers a high-pitched sound and a buttery, mild, and polished typing experience. Depending on whether users prioritize sound or feel in their keyboard switches, both options provide a unique typing experience that can be customized to suit individual preferences. Ultimately, users can expect diverse sound profiles and tactile sensations when choosing between the Dareu Aqua and Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy the unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and desire a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization, the WS Aurora Clear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences to ensure a satisfying and comfortable typing experience.
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