Dareu Aqua vs. Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique characteristics for different preferences. The Dareu Aqua, a 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 Matcha Green Pro, also a linear switch, offers a smooth and substantial feel with a satisfyingly sharp bottom-out, giving typists and gamers clear and tactile feedback. While the Aqua switch is described as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Feathery', the Matcha Green Pro switch is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Polished', 'Resonant', and 'Silky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, but diving deeper into their specifics will help you decide on the best switch for your individual needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
18mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows the light to shine through. However, the Nylon bottom housing on the Aqua provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate, as Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro also features a Nylon bottom housing, showcasing a similar sound profile to the Aqua.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings as it allows for clear housing designs that work well with RGB lighting. The differing bottom housing materials between the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro bring unique sound profiles to each switch, with the Aqua providing a sharper sound with its polycarbonate top and a deeper sound with its nylon bottom. On the other hand, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a consistent sound profile throughout due to both housings being made of nylon, resulting in a fuller sound overall. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Dareu Aqua and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro allows for a variety of sound profiles and typing experiences. The polycarbonate top housing in both switches creates a clear and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing in each switch provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. The split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings in these switches means that the typing experience will differ depending on which part of the switch is being utilized. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles and aesthetics, making them suitable options for those looking for a specific typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Aqua switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's heavier actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Aqua switch is unknown, while the V3 Matcha Green Pro has a bottom out force of 63 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Aqua switch may be more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the V3 Matcha Green Pro offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces to achieve the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Dareu Aqua linear switch is 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Aqua's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial key press feel compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro's shallower travel distance. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro, while those who enjoy a more robust key press experience may lean towards the Dareu Aqua. Both switches offer their own unique benefits depending on personal preference, with the Aqua providing a slightly longer travel distance for a more tactile feel compared to the V3 Matcha Green Pro.
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 Matcha Green Pro has an MSRP of $4.66 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Matcha Green 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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is known for its chirpy and clacky sound signature, providing a unique acoustic experience with a light and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch is recognized for its clacky sound profile, producing sharp and resonant clacks that offer an immersive auditory experience. While both switches share the clacky characteristic, the Aqua stands out with its chirpy sound, creating a distinct auditory experience for users.
When it comes to feel, the Dareu Aqua linear switch is lauded for its easy-to-press and feathery typing experience, offering gentle resistance and minimal exertion for effortless typing. Conversely, the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch provides a bouncy and creamy feel, with spring-like feedback and a smooth, buttery sensation when typing. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Aqua focusing on light actuation force for reduced fatigue, while the Matcha Green Pro prioritizes a lively and silky typing feel for enhanced comfort.
Overall, the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The Aqua excels in providing a light and chirpy sound signature, paired with an easy-to-press typing feel, making it ideal for users who prefer a softer touch. On the other hand, the Matcha Green Pro offers a clacky and resonant sound profile, coupled with a bouncy and creamy typing experience, appealing to those who seek a more substantial and responsive keystroke. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for users with varied preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Aqua linear switch and the Akko V3 Matcha Green Pro linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a super light actuation force with a unique chirpy and clacky sound, the Aqua switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium actuation force with a smooth and substantial feel, along with a sharp bottom-out and resonant clacks, the V3 Matcha Green Pro switch would be more suitable for your typing or gaming needs. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose based on the specific typing experience you desire.
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