Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Sky POM both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro, a linear switch, is a top choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts looking for a poppy, clacky sound and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM, also a linear switch, stands out for its premium build quality made entirely from POM material, providing a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and gentle actuation force. While the Akko switch is characterized by being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, the Dareu switch is known for its buttery, low-pitched, creamy, and silky 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
50g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Sky POM, we can see that they both have unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Sky POM features a POM top housing, which generates a deeper and more muted sound. While both materials offer distinct sound qualities, they cater to different preferences and atmospheres.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches incorporate a nylon material in this component. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Despite using the same housing material for the bottom, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Sky POM may still offer subtle differences in sound and feel, depending on how they are constructed.
Overall, the choice between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Sky POM ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience. The polycarbonate and POM top housings offer contrasting sound profiles, with the former producing a sharper sound and the latter generating a deeper tone. Meanwhile, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent deep and full sound across both switches. Whether you prefer a crisper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both switches provide unique typing experiences that cater to a variety of preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we can see some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Sky POM's 40 grams, making the V3 Cream Yellow Pro the heavier option in terms of actuation. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro requires 60 grams while the Sky POM's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the V3 Cream Yellow Pro the heavier option for bottoming out as well. Those who prefer a lighter feel may lean towards the Sky POM switch due to its lighter actuation force, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the V3 Cream Yellow Pro. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, we can see that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Sky POM's 3.8 mm. The difference may seem subtle, but it can have a noticeable impact on the typing experience. For those who prefer faster response times and a more responsive feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Sky POM with its longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deliberate typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow 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 Yellow 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 Yellow Pro linear switch offers a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound that features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro providing a more pronounced clicky sound compared to the Dareu Sky POM's smoother tone.
When it comes to feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished. This means that they offer a low-impact and responsive typing experience with minimal finger fatigue. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM switch is known for its buttery, creamy, and silky feel, providing a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the V3 Cream Yellow Pro focusing on light actuation force and responsiveness, while the Dareu Sky POM prioritizes a smooth and fluid typing experience.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch both have unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro offers a more tactile and clicky typing experience with a poppy sound, while the Dareu Sky POM provides a smoother and more mellow keystroke feel with a low-pitched sound. Choosing between these switches ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches will deliver satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, consider your preferences and priorities. If you value a medium bottom out force and a poppy, clacky sound paired with a creamy tactile feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch crafted from premium POM material that offers exceptional smoothness, a gentle actuation force, and a clacky sound, the Dareu Sky POM might be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing experience that aligns best with your personal preferences and needs.
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