Dareu Aqua vs. Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro offer distinct yet compelling experiences tailored to different preferences. The Dareu Aqua, a linear switch, is celebrated for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, which allows for effortless keystrokes and a unique chirpy and clacky sound signature. This makes it an ideal choice for users who favor speed and smooth, uninterrupted transitions between keystrokes without the resistance of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is a tactile switch that features a pronounced tactile bump, providing satisfying feedback to the user. Its louder, bassier sound signature enhances the auditory experience during typing, appealing to those who enjoy the sensation of each keystroke and the sense of confirmation that comes with tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize the effortless gliding of a linear switch or the gratifying response of a tactile switch; 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
30g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
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 Creamy Purple Pro both share commonality in their top housing material, as both utilize polycarbonate. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Polycarbonate's rigidity supports sound clarity, giving users a more resonant typing experience. Furthermore, both switches benefit from the translucency of the polycarbonate top, making them particularly compatible with RGB lighting setups. This means that users can expect a visually appealing glow through the switch housings, enhancing both the aesthetic and auditory aspects of their typing experience.
Contrastingly, the bottom housing materials of these two switches establish a notable difference in sound profile. While both the Aqua and V3 Creamy Purple Pro employ nylon for their bottom housings, they leverage the innate qualities of this softer plastic to contribute to the overall typing experience. Nylon’s sound-absorbing characteristics produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, which can make key presses feel more satisfying and immersed. This consistency in housing materials means both switches aim for a balance of high clarity from the top and depth from the bottom, ultimately delivering a well-rounded auditory experience.
When pressed, the two switches reveal a dynamic interplay between their top and bottom housing materials. In both models, the nylon bottom plays a significant role in shaping the bottom-out sound and feel, providing that heavier resonance with each keystroke. Conversely, the polycarbonate top governs the sound during key release, contributing to a cleaner and crisper disconnect. So, while the materials may be the same in terms of function and construction, their combined interplay results in a distinct and pleasant typing experience for users, emphasizing how different elements of the switch work harmoniously to achieve an optimal auditory and tactile response.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch, we find notable differences in their actuation forces. The Aqua switch has an actuation force of 37 grams, which is heavier than the V3 Creamy Purple Pro's actuation force of 30 grams. This makes the V3 Creamy Purple Pro a lighter option, potentially offering a more effortless typing experience, ideal for users who engage in lengthy typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the Aqua's bottom out force remains unknown, whereas the V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a bottom out force of 50 grams. This substantial bottom out force contributes to a more pronounced tactile feedback, making it better suited for those who prefer a solid pushing experience while typing. Consequently, the differences in actuation force suggest that those who prioritize a lighter feel may gravitate towards the Akko switch, while those seeking a stronger tactile feedback might prefer the Dareu Aqua, depending on its eventual bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This difference reflects a broader trend in switch design, where shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize rapid response times. The 4 mm travel of the Aqua switch provides a more pronounced depth, which some users may find satisfying and reassuring, making it ideal for those who prefer a less abrupt typing experience. Conversely, the 3 mm travel of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro caters to individuals seeking a more responsive feel, albeit with a slightly less tactile experience. Consequently, if you're drawn to a deeper keystroke, the Aqua is the better choice, whereas if you favor quick actuation, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the optimal option for faster inputs.
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 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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 and engaging auditory experience with its chirpy and clacky signature. The chirpy aspect provides a slight squeak, while the clacky component delivers a crisp and snappy sound that can be described as bright and percussive, making each keystroke noticeable and lively. This combination allows for an enjoyable typing experience, especially for users who appreciate an auditory feedback while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch is characterized by a loud sound signature that skews toward the bassier side. This means that its sound likely carries a deeper, fuller quality when pressed, appealing to those who enjoy stronger auditory responses during their typing sessions.
When considering the feel of these switches, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is particularly notable for its exceptionally light actuation force of 37g. This results in an easy-to-press action that requires minimal exertion, making it comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing finger fatigue. The feathery nature of the switch further enhances the typing experience, allowing for swift and responsive keystrokes. In contrast, while the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro boasts a significant tactile bump, there is limited information available regarding its specific feel characteristics. However, considering its tactile design, one could surmise that it provides a different typing sensation, likely engaging users with the tactile feedback while possibly being heavier to press compared to the Aqua.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch shines with its lightweight, chirpy, and clacky qualities, making it ideal for users seeking a lively and comfortable typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a louder and bassier sound with a strong tactile sensation, making it suitable for those who prefer a pronounced tactile feel. While both switches cater to different preferences, choosing between them ultimately depends on whether one prioritizes a light, smooth feel and an engaging sound versus a pronounced tactile response and a deeper auditory experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and intended use. If you value a lighter typing experience with minimal actuation force and enjoy a unique sound profile that combines chirpy and clacky tones, the Aqua switch would be your go-to option. This switch's feathery feel makes it ideal for long typing sessions, be it for gaming or general work, as it minimizes finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you seek a more tactile response and a satisfying sound that leans towards the bassy side, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro switch is the way to go. With its pronounced tactile bump and 50g bottom-out force, it provides a gratifying feedback loop that can enhance your typing experience, particularly for tasks requiring more precision, such as coding or writing. In a nutshell, choose the Aqua if you prefer a light, effortless touch, and opt for the Creamy Purple Pro if you’re after tactile feedback and a robust auditory experience.
Mentioned in this article
