Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, with the Dareu Master, a linear switch, it's important to consider the unique features of each. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is renowned for its affordably priced high quality and distinctive poppy and clacky sound profile. With a smooth tactile sensation, this switch is perfect for those who enjoy a lively, audible feedback. On the other hand, the Dareu Master offers a medium weight linear switch with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness. While the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is more accented and bouncy, the Dareu Master is known for its clacky and polished 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
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Master both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Master's POM top housing provides a deeper and more muted sound. While the top housings differ in material and sound profile, they both offer a distinct auditory experience that caters to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the V3 Cream Blue Pro utilizes a nylon material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Dareu Master's POM bottom housing contributes to a pleasing and unique sound, which is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Despite their differences in material, both bottom housings aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a specific sound profile that appeals to users seeking a particular sound.
While the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Master have varying housing materials for their top and bottom components, each material contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Whether it is the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Blue Pro or the deeper sounding POM housing of the Master, both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, the actuation force is the same at 45 grams for both. However, the bottom out force differs, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro requiring 55 grams while the Master's bottom out force is unknown. The V3 Cream Blue Pro is considered medium-light due to its lighter bottom out force, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming. On the other hand, the Master switch's heavier force for actuation may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the V3 Cream Blue Pro is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Dareu Master's bottom out force is not available for comparison.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Dareu Master linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, but for those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro might be the choice. However, for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their keystrokes, the Dareu Master linear switch with its slightly longer travel distance could provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer similar performance in terms of travel distance, so you can expect comparable results from either option.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch offers a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, creating a lively and audible feedback that pairs well with its creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch produces a classic clacky sound signature, which is sharp and snappy when pressed. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory experience, with the Cream Blue Pro delivering a more vibrant and poppy sound compared to the Master.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switch is described as having an accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished feel. This means that users can expect a tactile switch that is not too intense but still provides a noticeable amount of feedback, combined with a smooth and refined typing experience. In contrast, the Dareu Master switch offers a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches prioritize smoothness in operation, with the Cream Blue Pro offering a more tactile and lively feel compared to the Master.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, it is clear that they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Cream Blue Pro excels in delivering a vibrant and poppy auditory experience along with a smooth and tactile typing sensation, ideal for users who enjoy a more lively feedback. On the other hand, the Master switch offers a classic clacky sound signature and a mild, polished typing feel, appealing to users looking for a gentler typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch or the Dareu Master linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, along with a smooth and tactile sensation, then the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound signature and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing experience and enjoy the satisfying feel and sound of your mechanical keyboard.
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