Dareu Aqua vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note the key differences that set them apart. The Dareu Aqua, a linear switch, is renowned for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red, also a linear switch, features a 22mm double-stage spring that offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, adding a satisfying weight to each keystroke. While the Aqua is known for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, the WS Red is prized for its substantial typing feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Red both utilize nylon as the material for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material for the bottom contributes to a consistent typing experience between the two switches, emphasizing the importance of sound profile in mechanical keyboards.
However, the top housing material differs between the Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Red. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. On the other hand, the WS Red's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound due to nylon's softer properties. This contrast in top housing materials directly impacts the overall sound profile and feel of the switches, providing users with different auditory and tactile experiences.
With the top and bottom housing materials playing a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of mechanical switches, the Dareu Aqua and Wuque Studio WS Red offer distinct experiences to users. While both switches incorporate nylon in their bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the contrast in their top housing materials - polycarbonate for the Aqua and nylon for the WS Red - results in unique sound characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference for the specific sound profile and typing experience desired.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, whose actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua switch is not provided. When it comes to weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Dareu Aqua switch for longer typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Wuque Studio WS Red switch due to its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the WS Red has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Aqua. The Aqua's 4.0mm travel distance falls within the more traditional range, while the WS Red's 3.8mm is on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may opt for the WS Red with its shorter travel distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel may lean towards the Aqua with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a different feel in terms of travel distance but will provide a satisfactory typing experience for users with varied preferences.
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 Red 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 is known for its unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, offering a distinctive auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch provides a more traditional sound due to its classic material blend, offering a familiar and satisfying typing experience. Depending on personal preference, the Aqua switch may be favored for its unique sound profile, while the WS Red switch may appeal to those seeking a more classic typing sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature and feathery feel, offering minimal resistance and light actuation force for a comfortable and effortless typing experience. This feature makes it ideal for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch provides a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke for a more substantial feel. Whether you prefer the light and easy-to-press nature of the Aqua switch or the responsive and weightier feel of the WS Red switch, both options offer unique tactile experiences suited to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aqua switch stands out for its chirpy and clacky sound signature and easy-to-press, feathery feel, the WS Red switch provides a more traditional sound and a bouncy, responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on whether you prioritize a unique sound profile or a responsive typing experience with a bit more weight in each keystroke.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a super light actuation force, a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, and an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel, then the Dareu Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force that adds weight to each keystroke, and a satisfying and substantial typing feel, then the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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