Dareu Aqua vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Aqua and Akko V3 Crystal Pro both offer unique characteristics to consider. The Aqua is revered for its super light 37g actuation force, providing a chirpy and clacky sound signature that appeals to those who prefer a lighter touch. In contrast, the V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, producing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. While the Aqua is praised for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, the Crystal Pro is noted for its bouncy and polished attributes. 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
48g
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
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the resonance of the switches. Both keyboards benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate for RGB lighting effects, making them visually appealing options for customization.
Where the two keyboards differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Dareu Aqua features a nylon bottom housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which maintains the sharp, high-pitched sound profile associated with polycarbonate and complements the top housing material.
Overall, the combination of housing materials in each keyboard affects the typing experience differently. The qualities of the bottom housing material are felt more prominently during keypresses, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offer unique sound profiles and aesthetics based on the combination of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua is the lighter option with an actuation force of 37 grams, while the V3 Crystal Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 48 grams. The bottom out force of the Aqua switch is unknown, while the V3 Crystal Pro has a bottom out force of 60 grams. For those who prefer a lighter keystroke, the Dareu Aqua would be the ideal choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Akko V3 Crystal Pro for its heavier actuation force. Both switches provide different levels of feedback, catering to the preferences of the user based on their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is evident that the Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 3.8 mm. Both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, making them suitable for fast-paced typing or gaming experiences where quick responses are essential. Gamers may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro with its shorter travel distance for even faster reaction times, while those who prefer a bit more depth to their keystrokes may find the Dareu Aqua more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for travel distance and how it impacts typing or gaming performance.
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 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 blend of chirpy and clacky sounds, providing a distinctive auditory experience for users who enjoy a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch also produces a chirpy sound due to its fully polycarbonate construction, contributing to a bright and lively typing sound. Both switches offer a pleasant sound profile, but the Aqua's inclusion of clacky tones sets it apart for those seeking a more varied auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and feathery qualities, offering a light and effortless typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. In contrast, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a bouncy and polished feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation and a smooth key travel experience. While both switches offer unique tactile experiences, the Aqua's focus on easy pressing and feather-light actuation may appeal more to users looking for a gentler typing experience.
Overall, both the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch provide distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua stands out for its light actuation force and varied sound profile, making it a unique choice for those who prefer a lighter touch and enjoy a mix of chirpy and clacky sounds. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a fully polycarbonate construction for a bright typing sound and a bouncy, polished feel. Depending on individual preferences, both switches offer quality options that cater to different typing experiences, ensuring users can find the right fit for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you enjoy a super light actuation force and a unique blend of chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Dareu Aqua switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force with a bright and chirpy sound signature, along with a smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch may be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
