Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Dareu Sky POM
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Sky POM switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and Dareu Sky POM both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky POM switch is crafted entirely from POM material, offering a clacky sound, exceptional smoothness, and a gentle actuation force at an accessible price point. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics, with the V3 Crystal Pro being described as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', and 'Polished', and the Sky POM as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Creamy', and 'Silky'. 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
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Sky POM, one can see that the V3 Crystal Pro features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, while the Sky POM uses POM for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the POM top housing of the Sky POM creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound. The nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM elicits a fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound of the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro.
In terms of aesthetics, the polycarbonate housing of the V3 Crystal Pro allows for translucency, making it ideal for RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the POM top housing of the Sky POM may not offer the same level of translucency for RGB lighting but still creates a unique sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Sky POM is described as a classic switch housing material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to a clear and resonant sound.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Sky POM differ in terms of sound profile and material composition, they each offer their own unique qualities. The V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing results in a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more defined typing experience, while the Sky POM's POM and nylon housing create a deeper and fuller sound, providing a different typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that can enhance the overall typing experience for users.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Crystal Pro is the heavier of the two, with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams. On the other hand, the Sky POM is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 40 grams. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Sky POM switch is unknown. The actuation force is crucial for determining the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the bottom out force measures the amount of force needed to press the key all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Sky POM may be the better choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 3.8 mm. This means that users can expect a consistent keypress experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a similar tactile feedback and typing experience due to their identical travel distance, ensuring that users will get comparable results when using either switch. Consequently, whether you choose the V3 Crystal Pro or the Sky POM, you can expect a consistent typing experience with the same 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 Sky POM 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 POM for $4.98.
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 of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch to the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct auditory experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro switch emits a chirpy sound, characterized by a unique squeak that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Sky POM switch produces a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The choice of sound between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch delivers a bouncy and polished typing experience. This means that the keys have a spring-like feedback sensation, providing a lively feel with a smooth and refined finish for sleek typing. In contrast, the Dareu Sky POM linear switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. The keys feel smooth and fluid, gliding effortlessly with each keystroke, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall typing comfort. The decision between these differing tactile qualities will depend on individual typing preferences and desired typing experience.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky POM linear switch each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. While the V3 Crystal Pro offers a chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, the Sky POM provides a low-pitched sound and a buttery, creamy, and silky typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel, with both switches offering exceptional characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Whichever switch is chosen, users can expect a high-quality typing experience tailored to their individual needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch or the Dareu Sky POM linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a clacky sound with exceptional smoothness and a gentle actuation force, then the Sky POM switch could be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so take into account your typing experience and desired sound profile when making your decision. Ultimately, choosing the switch that aligns with your preferences will enhance your overall typing experience.
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