Dareu Aqua vs. Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, there are some notable differences to consider. The Dareu Aqua stands out with its ultra-light 37g actuation force, providing a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are praised for their budget-friendly quality, offering a poppy and clacky sound profile with a smooth tactile sensation. While the Aqua is known for being easy-to-press and feathery, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro both feature polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for those looking to enhance the visual appeal of their keyboard switches. Despite both switches sharing this housing material, each may have a slightly different sound profile based on other factors such as spring weight and stem material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro utilize nylon. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics, as it is softer and absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience for users of these switches. While the nylon bottom housing may not be as visually striking as the polycarbonate top housing, its impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch should not be underestimated.
It's worth noting that the differences in housing materials between the top and bottom of a switch can impact the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing material will have a more noticeable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing material will influence the sound when a key is released. Understanding the characteristics of each housing material can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferred sound and feel preferences. Ultimately, both the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offer unique combinations of housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, it is evident that the Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a heavier actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force for the Aqua is unknown, whereas the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Aqua switch due to its lower actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with its heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, the Aqua has a travel distance of 4 mm while the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Aqua has a longer travel distance compared to the V3 Cream Blue Pro, making it the switch with a bit more depth to it. The V3 Cream Blue Pro, on the other hand, has a shorter travel distance, providing a quicker and more responsive feel when pressed. Both switches cater to different preferences – the Aqua for those who prefer a deeper press and the V3 Cream Blue Pro for those who want a quicker, more responsive experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
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 it comes to sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky tones, creating a distinct auditory experience that sets it apart from other switches in the market. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is praised for its poppy and clacky sound profile, which is characterized by a smooth and lively feedback. Both switches provide an engaging sound experience, with the Aqua being lighter and more chirpy, while the V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a smoother and more tactile sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is known for its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, providing a light and effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during extended use. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, offering a tactile and responsive feel with a smooth and refined finish. Users who prefer a light and effortless typing experience may lean towards the Aqua switch, while those looking for a more tactile and responsive feel may opt for the V3 Cream Blue Pro.
Overall, both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. While the Aqua provides a chirpy and light sound with an easy-to-press feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro delivers a poppy and tactile sound with a bouncy and polished feel. By considering your personal sound and feel preferences, as well as the overall typing experience you seek, you can make an informed decision between these two switches to enhance your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you value a super light actuation force and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you seek a medium-light 55g bottom out force with a combination of smoothness, poppy, and clacky sound profile, the V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for the typing feel and sound that best suits your needs and preferences.
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