Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Dareu Master, both of which are linear switches designed for a smooth typing experience. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro is praised for its budget-friendly price point and high-quality construction, delivering a unique poppy and clacky sound that is complemented by its smoothness. On the other hand, the Dareu Master offers a medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness, making it a versatile choice for users looking for a reliable 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Dareu Master differ in terms of their top and bottom housing compositions. While the V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Master utilizes a POM top housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, both switches employ a POM bottom housing, which contributes to their pleasing and unique sound profiles on the deeper side. Despite the variation in top housing materials, both switches offer a distinct auditory experience thanks to the shared POM bottom housing.
In terms of aesthetics, the V3 Cream Black Pro's polycarbonate top housing is more visually appealing due to its translucency, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects. In comparison, the Master's POM top housing may not offer the same level of visual flair but compensates with its ability to produce a deeper and more muted sound profile. While the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro enhances the switch's sound by creating a fuller and rounder tone, the POM bottom housing of the Master complements the overall sound profile with its unique characteristics. Overall, the housing materials of both switches play a crucial role in shaping their respective sound profiles and contributing to the overall typing experience.
The impact of the housing materials on the sound and feel of the switches is evident in their construction. The use of polycarbonate in the V3 Cream Black Pro's top housing results in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile, while the POM top housing of the Dareu Master delivers a deeper and more muted sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Black Pro absorbs more sound to create a duller and rounder tone, contrasting with the POM bottom housing of the Master. These differences in housing materials ultimately influence the tactile feedback and sound characteristics of each switch, providing users with unique typing experiences based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch has a higher actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Dareu Master linear switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the V3 Cream Black Pro also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the bottom out force for the Master is unknown. This means that the V3 Cream Black Pro provides a heavier typing experience overall. When it comes to weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Master switch, as its lower actuation force could allow for extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Ultimately, individuals should consider their personal preferences when selecting a switch based on actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Master's 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for their faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance may not be noticeable to all users, but those who prefer a bit more depth in their keystrokes may find the Master's slightly longer travel distance to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a high-pitched and crisp sound that may appeal to those who prefer a sharper auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the Dareu Master linear switch provides a clacky sound that is described as sharp, snappy, and percussive, catering to users who enjoy a classic and bright sound profile. Both switches offer distinctive sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience, with the V3 Cream Black Pro leaning towards a higher pitch and the Master offering a more traditional clacky sound.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is praised for its creamy and bouncy typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with a spring-like feedback when keys are pressed. The switch also boasts snappy and polished attributes, offering a responsive and refined typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch is described as mild and polished, ensuring a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction. Both switches provide a comfortable and approachable feel, with the V3 Cream Black Pro offering a bit more liveliness and bounce compared to the Master's milder and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch each have their own unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the V3 Cream Black Pro leans towards a higher-pitched and creamy typing experience with a bouncy and snappy feel, the Master offers a clacky sound signature with a mild and polished feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide high-quality options for users looking to enhance their typing experience.(withIdentifier) Ultimately, selecting either switch will result in a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, with subtle differences in sound and feel to suit different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is important to consider your preferences for typing experience and sound. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a poppy and smooth feel, the V3 Cream Black Pro would be a great choice, especially if you enjoy a high-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a clacky sound and gentle typing experience, the Master switch from Dareu might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
Mentioned in this article
