Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro to the Dareu Sky V3 mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their characteristics. The V3 Cream Yellow Pro stands out for its budget-friendly option that provides a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth feel, appealing to those who enjoy a vibrant auditory experience with a creamy tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Sky V3 is praised for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, striking a balance that caters to various typing preferences. While the Cream Yellow Pro is described as 'easy-to-press', 'feathery', 'bouncy', 'snappy', and 'polished', the Sky V3 is characterized as 'neutral', 'subdued', and 'mild'. Each switch offers unique qualities that may appeal to different individuals based on their preferences and needs. 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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 are quite similar in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate as a relatively stiffer plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect a consistent sound profile and typing experience when it comes to the top housing of these switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro features a nylon material while the Dareu Sky V3 also utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound, creating a unique typing experience that differs from the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housings. Despite this difference in bottom housing material, both switches offer a tactile and satisfying typing experience.
In terms of construction, the qualities brought by the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housings of the switches. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a nuanced typing experience that combines the sharpness of the polycarbonate top housing with the deeper sound profile of the nylon bottom housing, providing users with a well-rounded and satisfying typing experience on both the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Sky V3.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Sky V3 is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams. The actuation force for the V3 Cream Yellow Pro is slightly higher, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Sky V3 offers a lighter actuation force, making it ideal for those who like to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. However, since the bottom out force for the Sky V3 is unknown, it is uncertain how it compares in terms of bottoming out. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired level of force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Cream Yellow Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Sky V3 has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Cream Yellow Pro would provide a faster response time, which is favored by gamers looking for quick reactions. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Sky V3 may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 V3 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 V3 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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is known for its poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a neutral sound signature that is more subdued, making it suitable for various typing preferences. The Cream Yellow Pro switch leans towards a more lively and engaging sound profile, while the Sky V3 switch provides a quieter and more neutral typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is highlighted for its easy-to-press nature, offering a feathery and bouncy feel that enhances the typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience without any pronounced characteristics. The Cream Yellow Pro switch is more responsive and lively in feel, while the Sky V3 switch offers a comfortable and approachable typing experience without being too light or too heavy.
Overall, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Dareu Sky V3 linear switches offer distinct qualities in both sound and feel. The Cream Yellow Pro switch provides a more engaging and tactile typing experience with its poppy sound and easy-to-press feel, ideal for those who enjoy a more dynamic typing sensation. On the other hand, the Sky V3 switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound and feel, catering to a wider range of typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more lively and tactile typing experience (Cream Yellow Pro) or a more mild and approachable typing experience (Sky V3).
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a moderate bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a poppy, clacky sound with a creamy tactile feel, then the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound signature and a light typing experience that reduces finger fatigue, then the Dareu Sky V3 switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal typing preferences and the specific experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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