Dareu Aqua vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch offer distinct experiences for users. The Aqua stands out with its super light 37g actuation force, providing a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Milk Blue switch doesn't have a specific standout feature but offers a typical clicky switch experience. The Aqua is best suited for those who enjoy easy-to-press and feathery switches, while the Milk Blue may appeal to those looking for a more traditional clicky typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Milk Blue switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which have similar qualities. The use of polycarbonate in housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting for a visually appealing look. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetics when comparing the top housings of these two switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Dareu Aqua and the Outemu Milk Blue switches have different materials. The Aqua features a nylon bottom housing, while the Milk Blue also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound for switches that use nylon bottom housings. Therefore, despite having different top housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile when comparing the bottom housings of these two switches.
Overall, the use of different materials for the top and bottom housings in the Dareu Aqua and Outemu Milk Blue switches results in a split of qualities between the two components. When typing on these switches, users can feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, as the bottom housing material plays a significant role in this aspect. On the other hand, the top housing material will have more impact on the sound produced when letting go of a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique typing experiences due to the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's heavier actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Aqua switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier actuation force of the Milk Blue switch may be favored by those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and the overall typing feel desired.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these switches, it is evident that they both offer the same amount of distance for keypresses, resulting in a similar tactile experience for users. This means that whether you choose the Aqua or the Milk Blue switch, you can expect to feel the same travel distance when typing or gaming. Overall, while both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, the Dareu Aqua and Outemu Milk Blue switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience for users.
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 Outemu Milk Blue comes in at $3.10 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
The Dareu Aqua linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile, described as chirpy and clacky, which sets it apart from other switches. The super light 37g actuation force contributes to the distinctive sound, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has no specific sound descriptors provided, so it is difficult to directly compare the sound qualities of the two switches. When it comes to feel, the Aqua is known for being easy-to-press and feathery, offering a responsive and low-impact typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Again, there is no specific information about the feel of the Milk Blue switch, making it challenging to make a direct comparison.
Considering the information available, it is clear that the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique sound profile with its chirpy and clacky characteristics, thanks to its super light actuation force. It also provides a comfortable and effortless typing experience with its easy-to-press and feathery feel. While the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch are unknown, it can be inferred that it may offer a different experience compared to the Aqua. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a super light actuation force and a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. This switch provides a responsive and low-impact typing feel, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a different feel and sound profile, the Outemu Milk Blue switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for actuation force, sound, and feel. Consider these factors carefully to ensure that you select the switch that best suits your typing needs and preferences.
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