Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for enthusiasts are the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Sky V4, both of which are linear switches. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro is known for its fully polycarbonate construction, which produces a bouncy and chirpy sound while maintaining a silky smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 sets itself apart with the use of POK material in its top housing, resulting in a deeper, thocky sound signature that enhances its smooth linear action. While the Crystal Pro is polished and chirpy, the Sky V4 offers a more neutral and low-pitched typing experience. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that may appeal to different preferences, making it important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and overall typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POK
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Sky V4, it is evident that both keyboards utilize top housing materials that contribute to a unique sound profile. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. On the other hand, the Sky V4 employs a POK top housing, which is praised for its smooth and durable qualities. While polycarbonate offers a clear and resonant sound profile with its stiffness, POK material provides a smooth and clacky experience with exceptional durability. Despite their differences, both materials aim to enhance the overall typing experience with their distinct characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials of the two keyboards, the V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate, similar to its top housing, to create a sharp and clear sound profile. In contrast, the Sky V4 features a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. While polycarbonate absorbs less sound and produces a sharper tone, nylon absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches, offering a varied typing experience for users of each keyboard.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 results in contrasting typing experiences. While the V3 Crystal Pro emphasizes a clear and resonant sound profile with its polycarbonate materials, the Sky V4 focuses on a smooth and durable experience with its POK and nylon materials. Despite their differences, both keyboards aim to provide users with a unique typing experience that is tailored to their preferences. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper tone, both keyboards offer a range of qualities that cater to different typing styles.
Weight
In comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we see that the V3 Crystal Pro has a slightly higher actuation force of 48 grams compared to the Sky V4's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the V3 Crystal Pro requires 60 grams, whereas the Sky V4 only needs 55 grams. This makes the Sky V4 slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. Both switches fall into the medium category in terms of actuation force, but the V3 Crystal Pro leans towards the heavier side for bottom out force compared to the medium-light Sky V4. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky V4 may be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the V3 Crystal Pro would provide a more satisfying push. Ultimately, the decision between the two would come down to personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Dareu Sky V4 has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. Both switches fall within the shorter range of travel distances, which are preferred by gamers for faster response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Dareu Sky V4, while those who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may opt for the Akko V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 V4 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 V4 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
In terms of sound, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a chirpy sound signature due to its fully polycarbonate construction, giving it a unique acoustic profile that sets it apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch provides a thocky sound with a deeper and more satisfying tone thanks to the innovative use of POK material in its top housing. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience, but the Crystal Pro delivers a brighter sound compared to the richer sound of the Sky V4. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches are described as bouncy, providing a spring-like feedback sensation that adds to the overall typing experience. The Crystal Pro switch is further noted for its polished feel, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Sky V4, on the other hand, shares the bouncy characteristic but lacks the specific mention of a polished feel.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Crystal Pro switch is best suited for those who enjoy a chirpy sound and a polished feel, while the Sky V4 switch appeals to individuals looking for a thocky sound and a bouncy feel. If a typist values either a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience or a deeper, richer sound with a smooth linear action, they can achieve similar results with either switch based on their individual preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force and a bright and chirpy sound signature, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch would be a great choice. The polycarbonate construction of the V3 Crystal Pro provides a silky smooth typing experience that is sure to stand out. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force, a deeper thocky sound profile, and a rich typing experience, then the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch is the way to go. The POK material in the top housing of the Sky V4 enhances its smooth linear action, offering a satisfying feel with each keystroke. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities and it ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel when deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switches.
Mentioned in this article
