Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Snow are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cream Yellow Pro is ideal for those on a budget looking for a switch that offers a combination of a satisfying poppy sound and smooth tactile feel, perfect for those who appreciate a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material, providing a deeper sound signature and a smoother typing experience. While the Cream Yellow Pro is easy-to-press and bouncy, the Snow switch is known for its thocky sound and low-pitched 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Snow both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness and clear translucency, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Snow's POK top housing offers a smooth and clacky experience, with exceptional durability and wear resistance. Both materials provide unique benefits in terms of sound profile and aesthetics, catering to different preferences of users.
In terms of bottom housings, both the V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Snow utilize nylon, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. Nylon has the ability to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those seeking a more muted typing experience. Despite sharing the same material for the bottom housing, each switch may offer slightly different nuances in sound and feel due to other factors such as switch design and construction.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Snow may be different, they both contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Cream Yellow Pro delivers a clearer and resonant sound, while the POK material of the Snow provides smoothness and durability. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound, catering to users who prefer a more muted typing experience. In essence, both switches offer a unique combination of housing materials to suit a variety of preferences.
Weight
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Snow linear switches have equal actuation and bottom out forces, both requiring 50 grams of force to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This means that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of the force required to type with these switches. When comparing the two switches based on weight, some users may find the medium actuation and bottom out forces to be ideal for both work and gaming purposes. The medium weight ensures that typing for extended periods is comfortable without causing fatigue, while still providing a satisfying tactile feedback for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches may come down to personal preference, as both offer a balanced weight for typing.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and the Dareu Snow linear switches both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled by the switch from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will have a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, both switches offer a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between responsiveness and comfort for typists.
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 Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 switch offers a poppy, clacky sound that provides a vibrant auditory experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is known for its deep thocky sound signature, thanks to its innovative use of POK material for the top housing and stem. If you prefer a more lively and poppy sound, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the better choice, while the Snow switch will give you a deeper and richer typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro switch is described as easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, snappy, and polished, providing a smooth and low-impact typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow switch is mentioned as bouncy, offering a spring-like feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively feel with rebound. If you prefer a switch that is easy to press, smooth, and polished, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the better option; however, if you enjoy a bouncy and lively typing experience, the Snow switch could be more suitable for you.
Overall, when considering both the sound and feel of the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro and Dareu Snow linear switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a poppy, clacky sound and a smooth tactile feel, the V3 Cream Yellow Pro may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deep and thocky sound with a bouncy typing experience, the Dareu Snow switch could be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so either option will provide a satisfying typing experience based on your individual tastes.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers a satisfying combination of sound and smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Yellow Pro linear switch is the way to go. These switches provide a vibrant auditory experience paired with a creamy tactile feel, making them ideal for those who enjoy a poppy and clacky sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound signature and innovative materials like POK in your switches, the Dareu Snow linear switch would be the better choice for you. The Snow switch stands out with its unique sound profile and bouncy key feel, providing a different typing experience compared to the Cream Yellow Pro. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and budget constraints.
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