Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro, a tactile switch, and the Dareu Sky POM, a linear switch, we see two distinct options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro stands out for its budget-friendly yet high-quality construction, offering a satisfying tactile feedback with a poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM impresses with its premium POM material, providing a smooth and gentle linear typing experience with a clacky sound that is equally pleasing. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and cater to different preferences - the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro for those who enjoy a lively tactile sensation, and the Dareu Sky POM for those who prefer a silky smooth linear actuation. 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
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
POM
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
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Sky POM differ in terms of their sound profiles and characteristics. The V3 Cream Blue Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile ideal for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Sky POM utilizes a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer property that absorbs more sound.
While the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Sky POM have different top housing materials, they both have nylon bottom housings that contribute to a similar sound profile. The nylon bottom housing on both switches creates a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound and produce a duller sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel when using either switch. However, the choice between the sharper, crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the deeper, more muted sound of the POM top housing in the Sky POM will ultimately come down to personal preference.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the V3 Cream Blue Pro and the Dareu Sky POM play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch. The split between the top and bottom housings allows for different characteristics to be felt when pressing down on the switch versus when letting go of a key. The impact of the bottom housing is more prominent during the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound profile with the V3 Cream Blue Pro or a deeper, more muted sound with the Dareu Sky POM.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we see a difference in actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Blue Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sky POM at 40 grams. However, the V3 Cream Blue Pro also has a heavier bottom out force at 55 grams, while the bottom out force of the Sky POM is unknown. This means that the V3 Cream Blue Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier touch, while the Sky POM offers a lighter actuation force. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter touch of the Sky POM for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may opt for the heavier actuation force of the V3 Cream Blue Pro for a more defined keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the Dareu Sky POM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the V3 Cream Blue Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the Sky POM. The V3 Cream Blue Pro's travel distance of 3.3 mm would provide a slightly quicker key press compared to the Sky POM's 3.8 mm travel distance. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the V3 Cream Blue Pro, while others who prefer a slightly deeper press may opt for the Sky POM. Both switches offer unique experiences based on their travel distances, but ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel and response time.
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 Sky POM has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky POM for $4.98.
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 switches are known for their distinct poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a lively and audible feedback that is harmoniously paired with a creamy, tactile sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switches offer a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches have unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choosing between them would depend on whether you prefer a more dynamic or subdued auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are described as accented, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a medium tactile feedback that is not overwhelming yet not scratchy. These switches offer a lively and responsive typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switches are characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing feel, with the V3 Cream Blue Pro focusing more on tactile feedback and the Sky POM emphasizing smoothness.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro and Dareu Sky POM switches both offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Blue Pro switches are ideal for those who enjoy a lively and audible feedback with a creamy tactile sensation, while the Sky POM switches are perfect for users seeking a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance. Ultimately, both switches provide high-quality performance within a budget-friendly range, ensuring that users can achieve a satisfying typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences carefully. If you value a tactile feedback with a medium-light bottom out force and a poppy, clacky sound profile, the Akko V3 Cream Blue Pro might be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a premium quality switch with a smooth linear feel, characterized by a gentle actuation force and premium POM material construction, the Dareu Sky POM could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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