Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between tactile and linear options, with the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 standing as prominent examples of each category. The Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump that provides an invigorating feedback, along with a loud, bass-heavy sound signature that many typists enjoy for its engaging experience. This makes it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a more dynamic and responsive feel while typing. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3, with its neutral sound profile and medium-light actuation force, offers a soft and comfortable typing experience that appeals to a broader audience, delivering the perfect balance for those seeking precision without the distraction of loud acoustics. While both switches cater to different preferences, one being bouncy and accented while the other is subdued and mild, they each bring unique advantages to the table. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
30g
Actuation force
40g
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
4.00 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
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 Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dareu Sky V3 both utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which significantly influences the auditory characteristics of each switch. The use of a stiffer plastic like polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This inherent quality of polycarbonate not only enhances the tonal clarity but also makes these switches particularly appealing for users who value RGB lighting, as the translucent housing allows light to pass through effectively. Because both switches share this material for the top housing, users can expect similar acoustic outcomes during operation, regardless of the brand difference.
In contrast, the bottom housings of both the V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Sky V3 are made from nylon, known for its ability to create a fuller and deeper sound profile. As a softer plastic, nylon is adept at absorbing sound, leading to a more muted and rounded auditory experience compared to harder materials. This design characteristic contributes significantly to how the switches feel when bottoming out; users will experience a softer touch and a muffled sound that adds to the overall tactile experience. The use of nylon in both switches ensures that users will achieve a consistent depth of sound while typing, further solidifying their similarities.
When considering the overall auditory and tactile experience of these two switches, it becomes clear that while the top and bottom housings of each switch differ in material, their combined properties result in a cohesive sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing delivers clarity upon key release, while the nylon bottom housing offers depth and roundness when the switch is engaged. Therefore, even with distinct materials for the top and bottom of the switches, the end-result—an engaging and pleasant typing sound—is consistent across both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the Dareu Sky V3. Users can therefore choose between these switches based on personal brand preference while still enjoying similar acoustic performance.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, we see notable differences in the actuation force, with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro having a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Sky V3’s 40 grams. This means that users looking for a switch that requires less force and allows for longer typing sessions might prefer the Akko switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel in their keystrokes might gravitate towards the heavier Dareu switch. Both switches have different bottom-out forces, with the V3 Creamy Purple Pro firmly bottoming out at 50 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Sky V3 is unknown. This creates an uncertainty in the overall typing experience of the Dareu switch, as users may not know how it feels upon bottoming out. Ultimately, the Akko switch caters to those seeking a lighter option, while the Dareu sky switch may appeal to those who prefer a firmer pressing experience.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch features a travel distance of 3 mm, while the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Creamy Purple Pro has a shallower travel, making it more responsive and potentially better suited for fast-paced gaming where quick key presses are essential. In contrast, the Sky V3’s longer travel distance of 4 mm may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel and tactile feedback when typing, as it provides a deeper key press experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth; the shorter Akko switch caters to users who favor speed, while the longer Dareu switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more traditional typing experience.
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 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 comparing the sound profiles of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, there's a marked difference. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is characterized by a loud sound signature that leans towards the bassier side, creating a pronounced auditory feedback that many find satisfying, especially those who appreciate a more acoustic typing experience. In contrast, the Sky V3 offers a neutral sound signature that is notably more subdued, producing a dampened sound upon actuation. This makes it versatile for various environments, appealing to both beginners and seasoned typists who prefer a less resounding option that still delivers the necessary feedback for quality typing.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro boasts several qualities that enhance its tactile nature. With descriptors like polished and bouncy, this switch provides a smooth yet lively experience, coupling reduced friction with an invigorating tactile bump. It strikes a balance that keeps typing engaging without overwhelming the user, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile sensation. Conversely, the Dareu Sky V3 is described as mild, offering a gentler experience compared to the more pronounced characteristics of the Creamy Purple Pro. Its mildness does not detract from the overall comfort and precision it brings, allowing it to cater to a wide range of typing preferences without being overpowering.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and Dareu Sky V3 cater to distinct typing experiences with their sound and feel characteristics. The Creamy Purple Pro delivers an invigorating tactile feedback accompanied by a loud, bassier sound, while the Sky V3 provides a neutral and subdued auditory experience with a gentle touch. Depending on personal preferences, one might choose the former for an engaging typing sound and feel, or the latter for a more understated and versatile option. Exploring these switches will guide newcomers to find the perfect match for their typing style and environment.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch largely depends on your typing preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a lively and responsive typing experience, along with a pronounced tactile bump, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro is an excellent option for you. Its bass-heavy sound signature and invigorating feedback are ideal for those who love to feel their key presses and don’t mind a more pronounced auditory experience, making it perfect for gaming or typing sessions where you want to feel every keystroke. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued atmosphere, whether at work or at home, the Dareu Sky V3's neutral sound profile and mild feedback make it a versatile choice that caters to a broad range of typing preferences. The Sky V3 excels in providing comfort and precision without overwhelming you with sound or excessive tactility, making it suitable for long typing sessions and professional environments. Thus, your decision should reflect both your tactile preferences and your typical use case, ensuring you select the switch that enhances your overall typing experience.
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