Dareu Aqua vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch are standout options. The Dareu Aqua is favored for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a profound tactile experience with a 70g bump and a "thocky" sound, making typing engaging and satisfying. While the Aqua is known for being easy-to-press and feathery, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is characterized by its accented, bouncy, and sharp feel. Ultimately, both switches have their unique qualities that cater 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
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile, we see that both switches feature a nylon bottom housing. This commonality means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches, contributing to a more immersive typing experience for users of both the Aqua and the WS Heavy Tactile.
On the other hand, the Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Heavy Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffer nature that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the WS Heavy Tactile will provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These differences in top housing materials between the two switches offer users a choice between a sharper sound profile with the Aqua or a deeper sound profile with the WS Heavy Tactile.
Overall, while the Dareu Aqua and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile both offer a similar deep and full sound profile with their nylon bottom housings, the differences in their top housing materials create distinct audio experiences for users. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. These differences allow users to choose a switch based on their preference for sound characteristics, whether they prefer a clearer, more resonant sound or a duller, rounder sound when typing.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch which has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua's force is unknown while the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua switch, as it requires less force to actuate. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the WS Heavy Tactile switch may be the better option due to its heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the weight of the switch can impact the typing experience based on personal preference and intended use.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Aqua offers a slightly longer travel distance, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the keys compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. Gamers who prefer faster response times might lean towards the 3.2 mm travel distance of the WS Heavy Tactile, while those who enjoy a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming may opt for the 4 mm travel distance of the Aqua. Both switches offer a different experience in terms of travel distance, so it ultimately depends 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 Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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 combination of chirpy and clacky sounds, providing a distinctive auditory experience. The chirpy sound adds a touch of squeakiness, while the clacky sound delivers a sharp and snappy tone, creating a bright and percussive sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch is characterized by a "thocky" sound that emanates from its nylon housings, offering a deep and resonant acoustic experience. This switch also produces a clean and sharp high-pitched sound that can be immersive during typing sessions. Both switches provide different sound profiles, catering to users with varied preferences.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its easy-to-press actuation, requiring minimal force to activate. The feathery feel of this switch reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, offering a responsive and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offers an invigorating tactile feedback due to its pronounced tactile bump and moderate to firm actuation force. The bouncy and sharp characteristics of this switch provide a lively and reactive typing sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, allowing users to choose based on their preferred typing feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different typing preferences. The Aqua switch provides a chirpy and clacky sound signature with an easy-to-press feel, ideal for those seeking a lighter touch. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch delivers a thocky sound with invigorating tactile feedback, suitable for users who enjoy a more immersive typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a profound tactile experience with a medium-heavy bump, immersive resistance, and a captivating "thocky" sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be more suitable. Consider the feel, sound, and bottom out force of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your typing needs and preferences. Ultimately, the decision rests on what type of typing experience you seek and what feels most comfortable for you.
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