Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron Ink Box Black

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and Gateron Ink Box Black both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua, a linear switch, is characterized by 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 Ink Box Black, also a linear switch, stands out for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel, with a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. While the Aqua is known for its 'chirpy' and 'easy-to-press' qualities, the Ink Box Black is praised for being 'silky' and 'polished'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that make them desirable, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Dareu Aqua Linear

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches differ in several aspects. The Aqua features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, offering a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. While both materials create distinct sound profiles, the polycarbonate in the Aqua switch is more likely to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency, giving it an advantage in terms of aesthetics.

In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Aqua utilizes nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing. Conversely, the Gateron Ink Box Black uses the same proprietary INK blend for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile throughout the switch. While the Aqua's nylon bottom housing may offer a more diverse sound experience, the consistency of the INK blend in the Ink Box Black provides a cohesive sound profile.

In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials. The Aqua's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing results in a blend of sharp and full sound profiles, while the Ink Box Black maintains a consistent pointed and high-pitched sound profile with its proprietary INK blend for both top and bottom housings. Depending on personal preference, users may prefer the distinct sound profiles created by either switch, with the Aqua offering more variety and the Ink Box Black providing a consistent experience throughout.

Weight

In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, it is clear that the Aqua is lighter in both aspects. The Aqua has an actuation force of 37 grams, significantly lighter than the 60 grams required for the Ink Box Black. Additionally, while the bottom out force for the Aqua is unknown, the bottom out force for the Ink Box Black is 70 grams, making it a heavier option. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer sessions, the Aqua would be the better choice. On the other hand, if a stronger and more substantial typing feel is desired, the Ink Box Black would be the recommended option. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches cater to different preferences, with the Aqua being lighter and the Ink Box Black being heavier.

Travel distance

The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Aqua being slightly longer than the Ink Box Black. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ink Box Black, while those who enjoy a bit more depth when typing or gaming may lean towards the Aqua. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel. However, both switches offer quality performance and can provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, providing a distinctive auditory experience for users who appreciate a lighter touch. The sound produced by the Aqua switch can be described as having a slight squeakiness and a sharp, percussive quality, making each keystroke stand out. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch produces a sound reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken, with a clacky and high-pitched profile. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, depending on personal preference and the accompanying setup of the keyboard.

In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light actuation force that requires minimal effort to activate. This makes typing with the Aqua switch effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch provides a silky and polished typing experience, offering exceptional smoothness and reduced friction during key presses. Both switches have unique tactile qualities that cater to different preferences for typing sensations, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences and typing style.

Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. While the Aqua switch provides a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Ink Box Black switch offers a clacky sound with a high-pitched profile and a silky, polished feel. Depending on whether you prefer a lighter touch or a smoother typing experience, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing feel and sound signature desired by the user.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, consider the following factors. You may prefer the Dareu Aqua if you value a super light 37g actuation force and enjoy a chirpy and clacky sound signature. This switch provides a unique typing experience for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smoother and creamier typing experience with a medium-heavy 70g bottom out force, the Gateron Ink Box Black may be more suitable for you. This switch offers a different sound profile, reminiscent of a spray paint can being shaken. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal preference for actuation force, sound, and overall typing feel.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Aqua Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Box Black Linear

$8.50

$7.65 per 10

Learn more