Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua is a linear switch known for its super 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow is a budget-friendly option that offers a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy feel when typing. While the Aqua may be more 'Chirpy' and 'Clacky', and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be more 'Polished' and 'High-pitched', both switches have their own distinct qualities that make them appealing to different users. 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
50g
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
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. This similarity in top housing material ensures that both switches will have a similar sound profile and aesthetic appeal when it comes to the top housing.
On the other hand, the Aqua and G Pro 3.0 Yellow have different bottom housing materials, with the Aqua featuring a nylon bottom housing and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also utilizing a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate. Despite the difference in top housing materials, the shared nylon bottom housing between the Aqua and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with both switches delivering a deeper and fuller sound profile.
The division of different housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the typing experience. The qualities brought by the bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials ensures a balanced typing experience with a mix of sharp, crisp sound from the polycarbonate top housing and deep, full sound from the nylon bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is the heavier one with an actuation force of 50 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Aqua's value is unknown, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Yellow has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Aqua for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will get a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Since both switches have the same travel distance, users can expect consistent typing experiences in terms of the distance the keys travel when pressed.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 distinct with its chirpy and clacky sound signature, which sets it apart from other switches by providing a unique acoustic experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch offers a higher-pitched clacky sound profile, giving it a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. Both switches offer their own unique auditory experiences, with the Aqua being chirpy and clacky, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is high-pitched and resonant. Depending on personal preference and setup, users can achieve different sound profiles with each switch.
As for the feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light actuation force that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Conversely, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch provides a polished and creamy typing experience, with smooth and refined key travel that reduces friction and enhances typing comfort. Both switches offer comfortable typing experiences, with the Aqua being easy-to-press and feathery, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is polished and creamy.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch each offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Aqua stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound signature and easy-to-press feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow provides a higher-pitched clacky sound profile and polished, creamy typing experience. Depending on the user's preference for sound, feel, and budget, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience on mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a super light actuation force of 37g and enjoy a unique chirpy and clacky sound, the Dareu Aqua switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy 67g actuation force and enjoy a higher pitched clacky sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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