Dareu Aqua vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it's clear that each switch offers a unique typing experience catered to different preferences. The Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches offer a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing the typing experience with a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. While the Aqua is more 'Easy-to-press' and 'Feathery', the Kiwi is categorized as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique qualities that appeal 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
43g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and TKC Kiwi both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Aqua's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing provides a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. In terms of aesthetics, the Aqua's translucent polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE offers a newer, sleeker look.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Aqua's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing contributes to its bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. The differences in bottom housing material between the two switches provide a distinctive typing experience, with the Aqua offering a rounder sound profile and the Kiwi featuring a brighter, crisper sound.
While the Dareu Aqua and TKC Kiwi have different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, each brings unique qualities to the switch. The split between the bottom and top housing materials influences the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches offer a range of sound profiles and typing experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Aqua is not specified, while the Kiwi has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Aqua for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Kiwi with its heavier force requirements. Both switches provide different tactile experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences for typing and gaming.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, it can be said that both offer the same level of key press experience in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. This means that whether you choose the Aqua or the Kiwi switch, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance. In terms of travel distance alone, there is no difference between the two switches.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is unique with its chirpy and clacky sound profile, adding a playful and percussive element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. The Aqua switch brings a distinct sound experience with its light actuation force, while the Kiwi switch delivers a satisfyingly snappy sound that enhances the typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and feathery touch, offering minimal resistance and a light keystroke that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Conversely, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch features a stepped, accented, and polished feel, providing a tactile bump at the top of each keystroke that is neither too subtle nor overwhelming. The factory lubed Kiwi switch ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box, making it enjoyable for extended use.
Taking all factors into consideration, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offer unique qualities in both sound and feel. While the Aqua switch presents a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched and neutral sound with a stepped, accented, and polished tactile feel. Both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a lighter touch with playful sounds or a medium-strong bump with a snappy feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium to medium-strong tactile bump at the top of each key press and a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, the TKC Kiwi could be the ideal option. Consider how you like your switches to feel and sound, and choose the one that best suits your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience, so it's all about finding the one that feels right for you.
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