Dareu Aqua vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) offer two distinct experiences for users. The Aqua is a linear switch with a super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that is easy to press and feathery in feel. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen (V2) is also a linear switch but is best known for its extremely quiet sound profile, smooth feel, and pillowy type sensation when typing. While the Aqua is perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch and a unique sound experience, the Silent Frozen (V2) excels in providing a silent and smooth typing experience. 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
39g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Aqua's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate top housings, the Dareu Aqua and TTC Silent Frozen (V2) differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Aqua opts for a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Silent Frozen (V2) sticks with polycarbonate for its bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch means that the qualities of each material are felt differently when typing - the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
In terms of sound and feel, the Dareu Aqua and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) offer distinct experiences due to their choice in housing materials. While both switches benefit from the sharp and clear sound profile created by polycarbonate top housings, the Aqua's nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller dimension to the sound, while the Silent Frozen (V2)'s polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Silent Frozen (V2) with 39 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Silent Frozen (V2) is 43 grams, while the Aqua's bottom out force is unknown. The difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Aqua switch, whereas the Silent Frozen (V2) may provide a more substantial feel due to its heavier bottom out force. Therefore, those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Aqua switch, while those seeking a more pronounced keystroke feel may opt for the Silent Frozen (V2) switch. Ultimately, both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, we can see that the Aqua has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Frozen (V2) has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of which switch is shorter and which is longer, the Silent Frozen (V2) is the shorter option. Both switches offer a relatively traditional travel distance, with the Aqua providing a bit more depth compared to the Silent Frozen (V2). Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Frozen (V2), while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may opt for the Dareu Aqua. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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
When considering sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signatures, providing a distinct auditory experience characterized by a little squeak and sharp, snappy sounds. In contrast, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch presents a quiet thocky sound profile with low-pitched and muted qualities, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying tone while minimizing noise. Depending on your preference for sound, the Aqua switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a chirpy and clacky typing experience, while the Silent Frozen (V2) switch is ideal for users seeking a quieter and more subdued sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is lauded for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering gentle resistance and light actuation force for effortless and comfortable typing sessions. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch is described as creamy, buttery, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is characterized by a silky sensation and reduced friction. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience by delivering a responsive and low-impact feel, albeit through different tactile qualities. Ultimately, the Aqua switch may appeal to individuals seeking an easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, while the Silent Frozen (V2) switch caters to those desiring a creamy and polished sensation during typing.
Considering the subjective qualities of sound and feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch offer contrasting experiences in the realm of mechanical keyboard switches. While the Aqua switch provides a chirpy and clacky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Silent Frozen (V2) switch delivers a quiet and thocky sound profile alongside creamy, buttery, and polished tactile sensations. Both switches excel in their respective attributes, catering to different preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a light actuation force and enjoy a chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a super smooth, quiet, and pillowy feel with a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
