Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Dareu Dream
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Dream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Dream both offer unique qualities to enhance your typing experience. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro is a linear switch that is specially crafted with a fully polycarbonate construction, resulting in a distinctive bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch is known for its lightweight design and affordability, making it an appealing option for those looking for both quality and cost-effectiveness. 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
48g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Dream both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. This contrast in bottom housing material can result in a different typing experience between the two keyboards.
However, despite the variation in housing materials between the two keyboards, both the V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Dream aim to offer a high-quality typing experience. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both keyboards ensures a unique sound profile, with a sharper and crisper tone. This similarity in material for the top housing means that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics. While the V3 Crystal Pro focuses on a consistent use of polycarbonate throughout, the Dareu Dream introduces a different element with its nylon bottom housing, which may appeal to those looking for a deeper sound experience.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and overall feel of a mechanical keyboard. The V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Dream showcase the impact of materials like polycarbonate and nylon on the typing experience. While both keyboards offer unique qualities with their respective housing materials, such as the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the V3 Crystal Pro and the fuller sound of nylon in the Dareu Dream, users can expect top-notch performance and aesthetics from both options. Ultimately, the housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience and personal preference will dictate which keyboard is the best fit.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is clear that the Dream is the lighter option with an actuation force of 40 grams. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly heavier actuation force of 48 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In terms of bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams to bottom out, which is not available for the Dareu Dream. Overall, those looking for a lighter switch should opt for the Dareu Dream, while those seeking a bit more resistance may prefer the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. Both switches offer their own unique typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly shorter travel distance at 3.8 mm compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Dream. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Dream being more on the standard side while the Crystal Pro leans towards the shorter end. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro due to its shorter travel distance, providing a more immediate keystroke. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press experience may lean towards the Dareu Dream for its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style, as both switches offer a different feel despite their subtle differences in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
The Dareu Dream has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Dream for $3.76.
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 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy and unique acoustic signature due to its fully polycarbonate construction, setting them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Dream linear switch produces a clacky sound that is sharp, snappy, and crisp. Depending on your preference for sound, the V3 Crystal Pro will give you a bright and chirpy typing experience, while the Dream will provide a more percussive and defined sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a bouncy and polished typing experience, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth key travel due to its construction and materials. In contrast, the Dareu Dream linear switch is described as easy-to-press and mild, offering gentle resistance during key presses and a more approachable typing experience. If you prefer a lively and refined typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro would be the ideal choice, while the Dream would be more suitable for those looking for a low-impact and effortless typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Dream linear switches offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. If you prioritize a bright and chirpy sound with a bouncy and polished typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro would be the ideal option. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky and defined sound with an easy-to-press and mild typing feel, the Dareu Dream would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer quality characteristics that would enhance your typing experience, so you can expect similar results in terms of overall satisfaction with either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Dream linear switch, consider choosing the V3 Crystal Pro if you prioritize a medium bottom out force, enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature, and prefer a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, opt for the Dareu Dream if you are looking for a switch with no specified bottom out force, appreciate an attractive price point, and seek a light linear option that offers quality and affordability. Ultimately, your choice should prioritize your individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
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