Dareu Aqua vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Dareu Aqua stands out for 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 Durock T1 is lauded for its comfortable typing experience with a medium bump and a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. While the Aqua is easy-to-press and feathery, the T1 is stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, and polished. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Durock T1 both feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Aqua's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the T1's nylon bottom housing offers a similar experience. Nylon is known for its softer nature, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound, enhancing the typing experience on both switches.
While the top housing material of the Dareu Aqua and Durock T1 is the same, the bottom housing material differs. The split between polycarbonate and nylon in the housing materials affects the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch. Typing on the Aqua with a polycarbonate top and nylon bottom will provide a balance between sharpness and fullness, while the T1 with both housing materials made of nylon will offer a consistent deep sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing material is more noticeable during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing the key.
In comparing the Dareu Aqua and the Durock T1, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences due to their housing materials. The different combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings results in distinct characteristics in each switch. While the use of polycarbonate in the top housing creates a sharper sound, the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound to produce a deeper and fuller typing experience. Whether you prefer a crisper sound profile with a balance of sharpness and fullness (Aqua) or a consistent deep sound profile (T1), both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is evident that they vary in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the T1's actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the T1 has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the Aqua is unknown. This means that the Aqua is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. However, the T1 provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent experience in terms of key press depth when using either switch. This similarity in travel distance suggests that both switches may provide a comparable typing or gaming experience in terms of key feel and actuation. Overall, while the Dareu Aqua and Durock T1 may have different characteristics such as actuation force and feedback, their travel distance remains the same at 4 mm.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 offers a unique blend of a chirpy and clacky sound signature, providing a distinctive typing experience that sets it apart from other switches. The light actuation force of 37g contributes to the crisp, bright, and percussive sound that can be described as both squeaky and sharp. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is known for its rain-like sound, reminiscent of drops falling on a window. It offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, suitable for various typing environments. Overall, both switches provide different auditory experiences, with the Aqua being more lively and clicky, while the T1 is more calming and mellow.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering minimal resistance and a light touch that enhances typing comfort. The light actuation force of the Aqua switch results in effortless typing and reduced finger fatigue during prolonged use, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch is described as stepped, accented, and polished, providing a more nuanced tactile feedback with well-defined stages of keypress. The T1 switch offers a comfortable typing experience with a moderate amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, ensuring smooth key travel with reduced friction.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Aqua switch excels in providing a lively and clicky sound with an easy-to-press and feathery feel, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the T1 switch delivers a soothing rain-like sound with a stepped, accented, and polished feel, offering a more nuanced tactile feedback for a comfortable typing experience. Both switches are well-suited for various typing environments, and while they offer different qualities, users can expect similar levels of typing satisfaction based on their sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when making a decision between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter touch with a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a comfortable tactile bump reminiscent of rain falling on a window and a neutral sound profile, the T1 switch could be more suited to your typing style. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing preferences and experiences with different switch types.
Mentioned in this article
