Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Dareu Master
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dareu Master switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dareu Master offer distinct experiences tailored to different typing preferences. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump and a bass-heavy sound signature, making it an excellent choice for users who enjoy clear feedback and an engaging auditory experience while typing. This tactile switch caters to those who appreciate a more dynamic interaction with their keyboard, often favored by typists and gamers looking for that satisfying "click" with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Dareu Master is a POM linear switch characterized by its medium weight and silky-smooth operation, providing a quieter clacky sound that appeals to users seeking a seamless typing experience without the disruption of high tactile feedback. The Master switch emphasizes a more subdued yet polished quality, ideal for those who prefer a straightforward, fluid typing experience. Ultimately, each switch has its own unique benefits; 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
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dareu Master, the distinct sound profiles generated by their respective materials illustrate how different plastics can shape the tactile experience of a keyboard switch. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro employs polycarbonate for its top housing, which is known for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is largely due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a clearer resonance when keys are released. In contrast, the Dareu Master uses a POM top housing that fosters a deeper and more muted sound. The softer characteristics of POM create a unique audio signature, thereby leading to a less piercing sound than that found in the V3 Creamy Purple Pro. As a result, users seeking a bright, vibrant auditory feedback may gravitate towards the polycarbonate housing, while those who prefer a more subdued audio experience may favor the POM option.
When considering the bottom housings, both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dareu Master utilize nylon and POM respectively, both of which contribute to a fuller sound profile. Nylon is associated with a deeper, more resonant tone due to its ability to absorb sound effectively, resulting in a rounded auditory experience. In the case of the Dareu Master, the POM bottom housing similarly produces a pleasing sound but leans more toward a muted tone. Thus, while both switches may evoke a fuller sound when pressed down, the V3's nylon bottom housing creates a richer experience, whereas the Master's POM offers a softer yet still enjoyable sound profile.
In essence, the differences in housing materials between the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dareu Master lead to unique auditory experiences during typing, while also sharing some commonalities. The varying effects of polycarbonate and nylon in the V3 produce a combination of clear higher notes alongside deeper tones from the nylon, culminating in a lively sound profile. Conversely, the Dareu Master maintains a more uniform and muted experience, with POM influencing both bottom and top design. Despite these differences, both switches can produce a delightful sound experience, demonstrating how various housing combinations can achieve satisfying results based on user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, we see a notable difference in actuation force. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a light actuation force of 30 grams, making it easier to press and ideal for extended typing sessions or long gaming marathons. In contrast, the Dareu Master requires a heavier actuation force of 45 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer. However, the bottom out force of the Master switch is not specified, which leaves uncertainty regarding how firmly it feels when fully depressed. In terms of weight, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is the lighter option, catering to users who desire a more effortless keystroke interaction, while the Master switch offers a heavier feel, appealing to those who enjoy a stronger tactile feedback when typing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch, the differences are quite notable. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Dareu Master has a longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that if you favor a more responsive typing experience, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the better choice due to its shorter travel distance, which many gamers prefer for quicker reactions. On the other hand, the Dareu Master, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who appreciate a certain depth and feedback while typing, as it offers a more pronounced keypress. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding response time and tactile feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch delivers a loud and robust auditory experience, characterized by a bassier tone that resonates with depth. This switch's prominent tactile bump contributes to an invigorating feedback while typing, making each keystroke feel significant. In contrast, the Dareu Master linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature, producing a crisp, bright, and percussive sound that is sharp and snappy. While both switches can be noisy in their own right, the Akko's deeper bass notes contrast with the Master’s more lively and vibrant clacking, indicating distinct auditory experiences, which will ultimately also depend on the keyboard's design and the choice of keycaps.
Regarding feel, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro offers a pronounced tactile feedback due to its large tactile bump, which provides a clear distinction between the actuation and reset points. This tactile response can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer a tactile switch. On the other hand, the Dareu Master switch provides a mild experience that is more approachable, striking a balance between comfort and responsiveness. It offers a polished feel, characterized by smooth key travel and reduced friction, contributing to a seamless typing experience. While the V3 Creamy Purple Pro emphasizes tactile feedback, the Dareu Master prioritizes a smooth and gentle touch, appealing to those who appreciate a more subdued typing feel.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dareu Master switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its loud, bass-heavy sound and prominent tactile bump, while the Dareu Master offers a polished and smooth experience with a clacky auditory profile. Depending on your personal preferences—whether you lean towards a tactile and robust experience or a smooth and mildly responsive one—either switch can provide satisfying results, but they deliver them in distinct ways.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Master linear switch largely depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a pronounced tactile bump that provides clear feedback with each keystroke, along with a bassy, loud sound signature, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is a solid choice. Its lighter actuation force of 50 grams makes it suitable for those who favor a more responsive feel, particularly during fast typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you seek a smoother experience with a more subtle sound profile, the Dareu Master linear switch might be the better option for you. With its polished finish and mild characteristics, this switch offers an enjoyable and understated typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions or when you require minimal distractions from clatter. Ultimately, your decision should hinge on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and sound or prefer a smooth, quiet typing experience.
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