Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Dream are both popular choices in the world of mechanical keyboard switches, each offering a unique experience for users. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is a tactile switch known for its distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a smooth and tactile sensation that is sure to please those looking for a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream boasts a linear design that is easy-to-press and offers a mild, clacky feedback at an attractive price point. While the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro excels in providing a bouncy and polished typing experience, the Dareu Dream stands out for its affordability and light linear feel. 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
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Dream utilize polycarbonate material for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switches. With a relatively stiffer nature, polycarbonate lends itself to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a more distinct typing experience. This similarity in top housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent sound and feel across both switches.
In contrast, the V3 Cream Blue Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Dream's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the typing experience, as the bottom-out sound and feel of the V3 Cream Blue Pro will differ from that of the Dareu Dream. Users looking for a switch with a more muted and subdued sound may prefer the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Dream ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound, the V3 Cream Blue Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller typing experience compared to the Dream's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether one prefers a crisper sound with the V3 Cream Blue Pro or a softer, more absorbent sound with the Dareu Dream, each switch provides a unique typing experience based on the materials used in their housings.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch to the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the heavier option. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a medium-light resistance. In contrast, the Dareu Dream has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, though the bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Dream may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for a more substantial typing feel, the V3 Cream Blue Pro with its heavier force would be the preferred option. Both switches offer unique benefits, but ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Dream's 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the V3 Cream Blue Pro may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Dream may provide a more satisfying and deep key press for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance in typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro has an MSRP of $2.88 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Blue Pro for $2.00.
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. This sound profile provides a lively and audible feedback for users who enjoy a more engaging typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Both switches offer a satisfying auditory experience, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro providing a more tactile sound profile compared to the Dream.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished. These qualities combine to offer a tactile and smooth typing experience that is neither overwhelming nor subtle in terms of tactility. The bouncy and snappy feedback adds to the liveliness of typing on these switches, while the polished finish contributes to a sleek and refined experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering a gentle resistance during key presses and a more approachable typing experience. The light actuation force of the Dream switch makes typing effortless and reduces finger fatigue during extended use, providing a comfortable and responsive typing feel.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Dareu Dream switches both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Blue Pro excels in providing a tactile and lively typing experience with its distinct sound profile and smooth feel, ideal for users who enjoy a more engaging feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream switch offers a light and easy-to-press experience with a mild sound profile, perfect for those looking for a more gentle and approachable typing feel. Depending on personal preference, users can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either switch, ensuring quality and affordability in their mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, you should consider your preference for a tactile typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force versus a smooth linear feel with no specified bottom out force. If you enjoy a lively, tactile sensation accompanied by a poppy and clacky sound profile, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prioritize affordability and a light, easy-to-press typing experience, the Dareu Dream switches would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences.
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