Dareu Aqua vs. Gateron Ink Yellow

Overview

When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it becomes clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a distinctive chirpy and clacky sound signature for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow offers a typing experience that falls between that of a laptop and a standard mechanical keyboard, with a shorter travel distance and smooth, clacky feel. While the Aqua is described as 'Chirpy, Clacky, Easy-to-press, Feathery,' the Ink Yellow is labeled as 'Neutral, Clacky, Mild, Polished.' Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on individual preferences. 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 Yellow Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Gateron Ink Yellow switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend top housing produces a satisfyingly clacky sound. While both materials result in a higher-pitched sound, the polycarbonate offers a more resonant and clear profile compared to the Ink blend. In terms of aesthetics, the Aqua's translucent polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing option for those looking to customize their keyboards.

In terms of the bottom housing materials, the Aqua's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Ink Yellow's proprietary INK blend bottom housing complements the top housing's sound profile with a relatively high-pitched and clacky sound. Both materials contribute to the overall typing experience of the switch, with the nylon offering a duller and rounder sound, while the INK blend adds a thinner and higher-pitched element. Despite their differences, both bottom housings enhance the overall sound profile of their respective switches.

When considering how the top and bottom housing materials impact the typing experience, it's important to note that each material contributes unique qualities to the switch. The bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. While the Aqua and Ink Yellow switches may have different housing materials for the top and bottom, both offer distinct sound profiles that cater to individual preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a clacky and high-pitched tone, both switches provide a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.

Weight

The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a significantly lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Gateron Ink Yellow switch with 60 grams, making the Aqua a lighter option for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. However, the bottom out force of the Aqua is unknown, which may not provide the same level of feedback as the Ink Yellow with a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different weight options catering to individual preferences; the Aqua being lighter and the Ink Yellow being heavier, allowing users to choose based on their desired typing experience. Ultimately, the actuation force and bottom out force of each switch play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience and should be considered when selecting a switch for a keyboard.

Travel distance

The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Aqua switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Ink Yellow switch, which means that users will have to press the key down a bit further to actuate it. This could be preferred by those who prefer a more deliberate and solid keystroke. On the other hand, the shorter travel distance of the Ink Yellow switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times due to the quicker actuation point. Ultimately, both switches offer smooth linear responses, but the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its chirpy and clacky sound signature, offering a unique and sharp acoustics experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch provides a smoother and clackier sound, making it a pleasant option for those who seek a balance between laptop-like typing and traditional mechanical keyboard sound. Both switches offer a distinct auditory experience, with the Aqua leaning towards a chirpy sound and the Ink Yellow showcasing a smoother clackiness. Depending on personal preference and setup, the choice between the two switches may come down to individual taste in sound profile.

When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience due to its super light 37g actuation force. Typing on these switches requires minimal force and provides a responsive and low-impact feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a more gentle and refined feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The polished finish of the Ink Yellow switch results in smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience for users. Depending on whether you prefer a lighter touch or a smoother feel, the choice between the Aqua and Ink Yellow switches can vary.

Overall, while the Dareu Aqua linear switch and Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch offer different sound and feel qualities, they both provide unique and satisfying typing experiences. The key decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences in terms of sound profile and typing feel. Users can expect distinctive sound signatures and smooth key presses with either switch, ensuring a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience regardless of the choice made. If one appreciates a lighter touch and chirpy sound, the Dareu Aqua switch may be the preferred option, while those seeking a smoother typing experience with a clacky sound signature may lean towards the Gateron Ink Yellow switch.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the Gateron Ink Yellow linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a smoother typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a sound profile that falls between neutral and clacky, the Gateron Ink Yellow switch may be more suitable for your needs. Consider factors such as actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing feel when making your decision on which switch to go for. Ultimately, the best switch for you is the one that enhances your typing experience and suits your preferences the most.

Mentioned in this article

Dareu Aqua Linear

$6.59

$3.76 per 10

Learn more

Gateron Ink Yellow Linear

$7.50

$7.35 per 10

Learn more