Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Dareu Mahjong
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Mahjong switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch to the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, one can immediately notice their distinctive features. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is renowned for its budget-friendly option that delivers a delightful poppy and clacky sound profile along with a smooth tactile sensation, making it ideal for users who enjoy audible feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong stands out with its unique green and white color scheme, offering a lively sound signature and effortless typing experience. While the V3 Cream Blue Pro is accentuated and bouncy, the Mahjong is described as bouncy and mild. 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
45g
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
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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Mahjong, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Mahjong utilizes POK material for its top housing, which is praised for its smoothness and durability. While both switches may offer similar results in terms of sound quality due to their top housing material, there may be slight differences in feel and durability between the two.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Mahjong use nylon for this component. Nylon is favored for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which may be preferred by some users. With both switches utilizing the same bottom housing material, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, with differences mainly lying in other components of the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in determining the sound profile, feel, and durability of the switches. While both the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Mahjong may offer differences in their housing materials, particularly in the top housing, the similarities in their bottom housing material mean that users can expect comparable typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, personal preference and desired characteristics such as sound profile, smoothness, and durability will guide users in choosing between these two switches.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, it's clear that the V3 Cream Blue Pro is lighter in terms of bottom out force, requiring 55 grams compared to the Mahjong's unknown bottom out force. However, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, providing a consistent typing experience when it comes to triggering keystrokes. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's medium-light bottom out force may appeal to users looking for a lighter touch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Mahjong's force information being unavailable may make it a bit of a mystery when it comes to how it feels to type on. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference regarding weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, we see that the Cream Blue Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Mahjong has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for faster response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Cream Blue Pro, with its slightly shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a bit more depth in their keypress may find the Mahjong to be a better fit due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the difference of 0.1 mm may not be significant in practical use, and both switches are likely to provide similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Mahjong has an MSRP of $8.89 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mahjong for $5.79.
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 switch is best described as having a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, offering a lively and audible feedback that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes with a moderate actuation force requirement. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard as a whole and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is known for its accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished characteristics. These features contribute to a medium tactile typing experience that's not overwhelming or subtle, providing a spring-like sensation and a smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Mahjong switch offers a bouncy, mild, and polished typing experience. The keys have a lively feel with a gentle typing experience, ensuring a sleek and refined key travel with reduced friction. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with their unique qualities.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch each have their own subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cream Blue Pro switch delivers a distinctive sound profile and tactile sensation, while the Mahjong switch offers a neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique characteristics. Ultimately, whether you choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro or the Dareu Mahjong switch, you can expect a quality mechanical keyboard experience tailored to your specific preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Mahjong linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and budget. If you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a lively and tactile feedback paired with a smooth sensation, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique color scheme, a gentle typing experience with a touch of rebound, and a moderate sound profile, the Dareu Mahjong switches could be the perfect fit for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer their own distinct qualities, so it's important to weigh your preferences before making a decision.
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