Dareu Aqua vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua and the HMX Xinhai mechanical keyboard switches, both linear in design, some distinct differences and similarities emerge. The Aqua stands out for its super light 37g actuation force, offering a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Xinhai boasts a unique PA12 top housing for softer acoustics and a POM stem for a crisp, higher-pitched resonance, combining subtle sophistication with precise performance. While the Aqua is praised for being easy-to-press and feathery, the Xinhai is noted for being bouncy and creamy. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
The Dareu Aqua and HMX Xinhai both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, adding a visual element to the typing experience. The similarities in top housing material between the two keyboards suggest that users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits when typing on either the Aqua or Xinhai.
In contrast, the Dareu Aqua features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Xinhai's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. Although both keyboards utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the slight difference in sound profile between the Aqua and Xinhai may appeal to users with specific preferences for the typing experience. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing showcases the attention to detail in designing the overall sound profile of each keyboard.
Overall, while both the Dareu Aqua and HMX Xinhai share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, the difference in bottom housing material highlights the nuanced variations in sound profile between the two keyboards. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings demonstrate how each component contributes uniquely to the overall typing experience. Whether users prefer the sharper sound profile of the Aqua's polycarbonate top housing or the fuller sound of its nylon bottom housing, both keyboards offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua and the HMX Xinhai linear switches both have the same actuation force of 37 grams, meaning they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sensitivity. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aqua has an unknown measurement while the Xinhai is rated at 45 grams, indicating that the Xinhai switch requires a slightly heavier touch to fully press down compared to the Aqua. This means that the Aqua switch may feel lighter and easier to type on, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods. In contrast, the Xinhai switch may be more suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Xinhai the shorter of the two options. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered more traditional, while a 3.0mm is shallower. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Xinhai for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Aqua. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
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 HMX Xinhai has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai for $2.99.
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, thanks to its 37g actuation force. The chirpy sound adds a playful element to typing, while the clacky sound provides a sharp and percussive tone. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch boasts a softer acoustics profile due to its PA12 top housing, combined with a crisp, higher-pitched resonance from the POM stem. Both switches have a clacky sound, but the Aqua stands out with its chirpy characteristic. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also impacted by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light and effortless typing experience. The minimal force required for actuation reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, enhancing overall comfort and responsiveness. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch provides a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, along with a creamy typing experience that feels smooth and buttery. The Aqua switch prioritizes lightness and ease of use, while the Xinhai switch offers a more dynamic and lively typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch have their own unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Aqua switch stands out with its chirpy sound and feathery feel, while the Xinhai switch offers a softer acoustics profile and a bouncy, creamy typing experience. Depending on whether you prefer a playful and light typing experience or a smoother and bouncier feel, you can choose between these two switches to achieve your desired results.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance, the HMX Xinhai linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Consider your typing style, desired sound profile, and keypress feel when deciding between these two switches to find the perfect match for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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