Akko V3 Cream Black Pro vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offer distinct experiences for users. The Akko V3 Cream Black Pro, a linear switch, is perfect for those on a budget who still desire high-quality performance. Known for its unique poppy and clacky sound, these switches are smooth and bouncy, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, a tactile switch, offers a medium level of tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature. This makes it a great option for those looking for a balanced 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
N/A
Total travel
3.30 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
20mm
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
While the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro and Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their bottom housings. The V3 Cream Black Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. In comparison, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro also uses a nylon bottom housing, emphasizing a similar sound experience. However, the split between the top and bottom housings means that the qualities of each material are felt in different aspects of the typing experience.
In terms of the top housing material, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and Dareu Violet Gold Pro feature polycarbonate. This choice of material produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. As a result, users of both keyboards can expect a clear and resonant sound experience with visually appealing lighting effects.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the V3 Cream Black Pro and Dareu Violet Gold Pro utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique tactile experience for users. Despite this similarity, the different top and bottom housing materials in each keyboard contribute to a slightly varied typing experience between the two models.
Weight
Comparing the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the 45 grams of the Violet Gold Pro. The bottom out force of the V3 Cream Black Pro is also heavier at 65 grams, while the bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro is unknown. The V3 Cream Black Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, while the Violet Gold Pro offers a lighter touch for smoother typing. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the V3 Cream Black Pro being better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel, and the Violet Gold Pro ideal for those who enjoy a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferable for longer typing sessions and heavier switches providing a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the 3.8 mm of the Violet Gold Pro. The V3 Cream Black Pro's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Violet Gold Pro's longer travel distance may offer a more deliberate and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable for the individual user.
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 Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro 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, sharp, and crisp sound when pressed, which may appeal to those who prefer a more distinct sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch provides a neutral sound, making it a versatile option suitable for various environments and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is characterized by its creamy, bouncy, snappy, and polished typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with a spring-like feedback. Conversely, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch is described as stepped, providing a tactile feedback with two stages in the keystroke. The Cream Black Pro switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more dynamic and responsive typing feel, while the Violet Gold Pro switch is a great option for individuals who appreciate a subtler tactile experience.
Overall, both the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. If you are drawn to a high-pitched sound and a creamy, bouncy typing experience, the Cream Black Pro switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound and a stepped tactile feedback, the Violet Gold Pro switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal typing preferences and the overall keyboard setup you are aiming to achieve.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a unique poppy and clacky sound, and a smooth typing experience, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a light touch, medium tactility, and a balanced typing experience, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch might be more suited to your needs. Consider your typing habits, desired sound profile, and tactile feedback when making your decision. Overall, both switches offer quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, so make sure to choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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