Dareu Aqua vs. Wuque Studio WS Pearl
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua and Wuque Studio WS Pearl stand out as impressive linear options, each offering unique characteristics tailored to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua is known for its exceptionally light 37g actuation force, making it a superb choice for users who prefer a more feather-light touch, complemented by its distinctive chirpy and clacky sound signature that adds a lively touch to your typing experience. In contrast, the WS Pearl employs a clever design featuring ball-bearings that minimize friction, resulting in a remarkably smooth keystroke feel, while its medium-high pitched sound provides a satisfying auditory feedback during use. Both switches have their merits: the Aqua caters to those who enjoy an energetic typing style with a lightweight feel, while the Pearl appeals to users seeking a serene, silky-smooth typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that fits your personal typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
16mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl, there are notable differences in their performance and sound characteristics, primarily stemming from their choice of materials for the top housing. The Aqua utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, a choice that creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This crispness is attributed to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for more resonant sound waves to travel through the material, enhancing clarity, particularly in scenarios where RGB lighting is implemented. The translucency of polycarbonate not only allows for vibrant lighting effects but also contributes to a sound signature that is clear and well-defined, making it ideal for users who prefer a more pronounced auditory response.
In contrast, the WS Pearl features a nylon top housing, which is favored for its properties that produce a deeper, fuller sound. Here, nylon's relatively softer nature plays a crucial role; it absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder auditory experience. This housing choice leans towards a more muted sound signature, appealing to users who may prefer a softer, more subtle keypress feedback. Consequently, the difference in the top housing materials is significant enough that users will experience a stark variation in auditory feedback when typing, with the Aqua favoring brightness while the Pearl emphasizes warmth in sound.
However, both switches share a commonality in their bottom housing, as they both employ nylon, which contributes to a deeper bottom-out sound and feel. Since nylon is utilized in both models, users will experience similar low-end characteristics when pressing the keys down, enhancing the perception of a more robust typing experience. Therefore, while the overall sound profiles may differ due to the top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing creates a consistent foundation that ensures both switches deliver a satisfying and rounded sound when the key is fully depressed. This convergence rooted in the nylon bottom also highlights the intriguing balance of auditory experiences that each switch offers, catering to a range of typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Aqua switch has a light actuation force of 37 grams, making it easier to press and more suitable for prolonged typing sessions. In contrast, the WS Pearl features a lighter actuation force of 30 grams, which also contributes to ease of use for extended periods, though it is still slightly lighter than the Aqua. However, the key contrast lies in their bottom out forces; the WS Pearl has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which indicates a firmer end point when pressing down the switch, offering a more tactile and substantial typing experience. Meanwhile, the bottom out force for the Aqua is unknown, leaving its overall feedback upon bottoming out uncertain. Users who prefer a lighter feel might lean towards the WS Pearl for its lower actuation force, while those who appreciate a heavier feel might find the Aqua more appealing if its bottom out force were available to compare. Overall, the WS Pearl is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, while the Aqua’s heavier actuation force may cater to those seeking a more resistant typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Aqua switch provides a more substantial feel when pressed, catering to those who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes. In contrast, the WS Pearl, with its shorter travel distance, may offer quicker response times, which can be advantageous for gamers seeking rapid key acts. Consequently, if you prefer a switch that feels deeper and has a more robust travel experience, the Dareu Aqua would be the better fit. However, if you're inclined toward speed and responsiveness, the WS Pearl is the optimal choice, allowing you to achieve similar results in quicker gaming actions due to its reduced distance.
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 Pearl comes in at $6.00 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
The sound profile of the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by a unique combination of chirpy and clacky tones, creating an acoustic experience that is both bright and percussive. The chirpy sound adds a distinct squeak to each keystroke, while the clacky element contributes a sharp and snappy response. This results in a delightful auditory feedback that many users enjoy, especially those who appreciate a lighter-touch feel. By contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch has a medium-high pitched sound signature, but specific details about its auditory profile remain unspecified. The sound of both switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard build and keycap material, but the Aqua's distinctive chirpy-clacky nature sets it apart for those seeking a lively sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers an exceptionally easy-to-press experience with a very light actuation force of just 37g. This low resistance allows for a feathery touch, making it particularly comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Users benefit from reduced finger fatigue, which enhances overall satisfaction during extended use. Unfortunately, details about the feel of the WS Pearl are currently unknown, leaving a gap in comparison. However, the Aqua's gentle and responsive nature suggests it will provide a consistently easy and enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its unique sound and incredibly light feel, providing an enjoyable typing experience that is both lively and comfortable. The Aqua's chirpy and clacky sound, alongside its feathery touch, makes it an appealing choice for those who prioritize a lighter touch in their keyboards. While the WS Pearl's sound and feel characteristics remain less defined, its incorporation of ball-bearings hints at a uniquely smooth keystroke that could appeal to a different set of preferences. Ultimately, the Aqua is well-suited for users who desire engaging auditory feedback alongside effortless key presses, while those intrigued by the Pearl might find themselves pleasantly surprised if they value an exceptionally smooth typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Pearl linear switch ultimately hinges on your preferences for actuation force, tactile feedback, and acoustic experience. If you find yourself favoring a very light touch and enjoy the sensation of effortless key presses, the Aqua is an excellent choice. Its 37g actuation force means you can type or game for extended periods without experiencing significant finger fatigue, all while enjoying a unique chirpy and clacky sound that adds character to your keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a medium bottom-out force of 58 grams, the WS Pearl would be the better option. Known for its super smooth keystrokes, made possible by its ball-bearing mechanism, this switch provides a satisfying typing experience with a medium-high pitched sound signature. Therefore, consider your own typing style: if you lean towards light, bouncy, and fun inputs, go for the Aqua; if you appreciate a bit more weight and a luxurious smoothness in your keystrokes, turn to the WS Pearl.
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