Dareu Aqua vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offer unique characteristics to consider. The Dareu Aqua switch is praised for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch by Wuque Studio stands out for its innovative design that reduces switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners, offering a quieter typing experience with exceptional responsiveness. While the Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, the WS Silent Linear switch is characterized by its neutral, mild, and subdued typing experience. 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
63.5g
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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption compared to harder plastics, leading to a rounder and duller sound. In terms of bottom-out sound and feel, the nylon bottom housing of both switches would provide a similar typing experience, emphasizing the importance of the bottom housing on the overall typing feel.
On the other hand, the Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, while the WS Silent Linear incorporates a nylon top housing. This difference in top housing material affects the sound profile when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Aqua creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature, while the nylon top housing of the WS Silent Linear contributes to a deeper, fuller sound. This contrast highlights how the top housing material can significantly impact the sound produced by the switch.
Overall, while both the Dareu Aqua and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housing, their choice of top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing produces a clear and resonant sound, while the WS Silent Linear's nylon top housing generates a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound is crucial for individuals looking to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch has a heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the bottom out force of the Aqua switch is unknown. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Aqua switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while users looking for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the WS Silent Linear switch with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of travel distance, the WS Silent Linear is the shorter option, providing a quicker response time favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Aqua switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, but the slight difference between 3.5 mm and 4 mm can make a noticeable impact on the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sounds, which can add a fun and distinctive auditory experience to your typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch provides a more subdued and muted sound profile, focusing on reducing noise levels for a quieter typing experience. If you prefer a more playful and crisp sound, the Aqua may be the way to go, while the WS Silent Linear switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter and more tranquil typing environment.
Regarding feel, the Aqua switch boasts an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, perfect for reducing finger fatigue and enhancing typing comfort during long sessions. In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle ground, providing a gentle and approachable feel for most users. Depending on your preference for a light and effortless keystroke or a more moderate and consistent typing feel, you can choose between the Aqua and the WS Silent Linear switches.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua switch offers a lively and light typing experience with chirpy and clacky sounds, while the WS Silent Linear switch focuses on a quieter and more neutral typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a unique sound signature or a quiet typing environment. However, both switches are designed to provide quality typing experiences, so you can expect comparable results in terms of performance and responsiveness.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a super light actuation force and enjoy a unique chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a medium-heavy actuation force, a more neutral or muted sound profile, and a mild typing experience, the WS Silent Linear switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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