Dareu Aqua vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch. The Dareu Aqua switch is notable for its incredibly light 37g actuation force, providing a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sound signatures that cater to those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a pleasant tactile bump and a higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing the typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts. If you're looking for an easy-to-press and feathery switch, the Aqua might be the ideal choice, while the Lavender Purple Pro switch may be more suited for those who enjoy a bouncy and polished typing experience. 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
1.90 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
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
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. However, while both keyboards share this common material for their top housings, they may differ in design aesthetics or RGB lighting implementation.
In contrast, the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro feature nylon bottom housings, which offer a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing of a switch has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressed down. This means that despite sharing the same nylon material for their bottom housings, the actual typing experience and sound may vary slightly between these two keyboards.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro can significantly impact the typing experience and sound produced by these keyboards. While they both incorporate polycarbonate for their top housings and nylon for their bottom housings, the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom may differ. Whether it be the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate or the fuller sound profile of nylon, each material contributes to the overall typing experience in a unique way. Ultimately, the decision between these two keyboards may come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
The Dareu Aqua linear switch and Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch both have their own unique actuation and bottom out forces. The Aqua has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 45 grams, making it easier to type on for extended periods without fatigue. However, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro has a heavier bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial and satisfying typing experience. The Aqua's bottom out force is unavailable, but assuming it is similar to the actuation force, typing on it may feel more consistent throughout. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel and the preferred weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The Dareu Aqua linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Aqua has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a slightly deeper feel when pressing down on the keys compared to the V3 Lavender Purple Pro. Gamers who prefer faster response times may opt for the V3 Lavender Purple Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Dareu Aqua. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results but cater to different preferences in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Lavender 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 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 tones, providing a distinct auditory experience. The higher-pitched sound profile and satisfying tactile bump of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch contribute to an enjoyable typing sound. Both switches provide different sound profiles that cater to individual preferences, with the Aqua being more on the light and sharp side, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a more tactile and resonant sound.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Aqua switch is characterized by a light actuation force that allows for easy and effortless typing. The feathery touch of the Aqua switch reduces finger fatigue and enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a more tactile experience with accents of tactility and a bouncy, snappy feel. The polished finish of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch results in a smooth and refined typing sensation. Overall, both switches provide different tactile experiences, with the Aqua focusing on lightness and ease of pressing, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro offers a more tactile and responsive feel.
In conclusion, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch each have unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Aqua switch stands out with its chirpy and clacky sound profile, combined with an easy-to-press and feathery typing feel. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers a higher-pitched sound, accented tactility, and a bouncy, snappy feel, with a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide distinct options for a personalized mechanical keyboard typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, you should consider your typing preferences and needs. If you're looking for a super light and unique typing experience with a chirpy and clacky sound signature, the Aqua switch with its 37g actuation force is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light tactile switch with a satisfying tactile bump and a higher-pitched sound profile, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch is the better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize a light and easy-to-press feel or a bouncy and tactile typing experience. Consider your typing style and comfort level to make the right choice between these two distinctive switches.
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