Dareu Aqua vs. Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua linear switch is known 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 Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches are budget-friendly options that offer a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth feel, making them ideal for those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile feel. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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 Yellow Pro 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 results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Aqua and V3 Cream Yellow Pro differ in their bottom housing materials. The Aqua uses nylon for its bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. In comparison, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing for similar sound characteristics.
In terms of material composition, both the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, resulting in similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness and clarity. However, the difference in bottom housing material between the two switches introduces variations in sound and feel. The Aqua's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a rounder sound quality. This distinction highlights how the choice of bottom housing material can impact the overall typing experience and sound output of a mechanical keyboard switch.
The split between the top and bottom housing materials in the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro leads to a division in the qualities each material brings to the switch. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This division allows for a more nuanced typing experience, where different aspects of sound and feel are influenced by distinct housing materials. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles and typing experiences based on the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials used in their design.
Weight
In comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, it is clear that there are significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the V3 Cream Yellow Pro's heavier actuation force of 50 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Aqua is unknown, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while the Aqua may require less force to initiate a keystroke, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a higher bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Aqua may be preferred for longer typing sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro can offer a more solid and satisfying typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and force requirement.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Aqua switch offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a bit more depth when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch offers a shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick reactions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference - those who prefer a deeper key press may lean towards the Dareu Aqua, while those seeking a faster response may opt for the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Both switches offer unique benefits, so it's important to consider your own needs and preferences when choosing between them.
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 Yellow 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 Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch offers a unique combination of a chirpy and clacky sound signature, creating a distinctive auditory experience. The chirpy characteristic adds a subtle squeak to the sound, while the clacky feature brings a sharp and snappy quality to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch provides a poppy and clacky sound, delivering a vibrant auditory experience with a satisfying level of smoothness. Both switches offer a pleasing sound profile, but the Aqua stands out for its chirpy nature, while the V3 Cream Yellow Pro excels in providing a more traditional clacky sound.
When it comes to the feel of the Dareu Aqua and Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switches, both are described as easy-to-press and feathery. These characteristics indicate that both switches offer a light actuation force, making typing effortless and comfortable while reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is noted for its bouncy and snappy feel, providing a spring-like feedback sensation and super responsiveness during typing. The Aqua switch, on the other hand, is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable and responsive typing feel, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro leaning towards a livelier and bouncier experience compared to the Aqua.
In conclusion, while the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch share similarities in their light actuation force and feathery feel, they offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Aqua stands out for its chirpy sound signature and polished feel, making it a unique choice for those who enjoy a lighter touch with a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro excels in providing a poppy and clacky sound paired with a bouncy and snappy feel, catering to enthusiasts who seek a vibrant auditory experience with lively feedback. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, allowing users to achieve similar results in terms of comfort and responsiveness with their individual sound and feel preferences.
Conclusion
Therefore, when considering whether to choose the Dareu Aqua linear switch or the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch, you should opt for the Aqua if you prefer an extremely light actuation force and enjoy a unique chirpy and clacky sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a light touch and a distinctive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a smooth key press with a poppy, clacky sound, then the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the way to go. This switch is perfect for those who want a satisfying tactile feel without breaking the bank. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and overall typing experience.
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