Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro offer distinct typing experiences. The V3 Crystal Pro features a linear switch with fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bouncy and chirpy sound profile, as well as a polished feel. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro offers a tactile switch with medium tactility, a light touch, and a neutral sound signature, making it a balanced option for those who prefer a bit of feedback while typing. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing aesthetics. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
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
The V3 Crystal Pro and Dareu Violet Gold Pro both feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing, creating a visually appealing effect. However, the V3 Crystal Pro also has a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro features a nylon bottom housing. The nylon bottom housing of the Violet Gold Pro contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro.
In terms of housing materials, the V3 Crystal Pro and Dareu Violet Gold Pro differ in their bottom housing material. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, the V3 Crystal Pro utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, providing a consistent sharp, high-pitched sound profile throughout the key press. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a different typing experience, producing a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon. This difference in bottom housing material affects the overall sound and feel of the switches, with the V3 Crystal Pro focusing more on clarity and sharpness, while the Violet Gold Pro prioritizes depth and fullness in its sound profile.
When comparing the housing materials of the V3 Crystal Pro and Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is clear that the choice of material can significantly impact the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. Both switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, crisper sound profile and is ideal for incorporating RGB lighting. However, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains consistency in sound quality, while the Violet Gold Pro's nylon bottom housing adds depth and fullness to the sound. Ultimately, the difference in bottom housing material between these two switches highlights how the choice of housing material can affect the overall typing experience and sound output of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, it is clear that the V3 Crystal Pro is the heavier option with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Violet Gold Pro is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams. The bottom out force for the Violet Gold Pro is unknown. The actuation force is crucial for determining how much force is needed to register a keystroke, while the bottom out force indicates the amount of force required to press the key all the way down. For users who prefer a lighter typing experience to prevent fatigue during long typing sessions or gaming, the Violet Gold Pro would be the better choice. However, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the V3 Crystal Pro. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch have a travel distance of 3.8 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of the two switches, it is evident that they both provide a consistent experience in terms of keypress feel. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation and typing speed, while the longer travel distance provides a more tactile and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro or the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
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 Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro 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 Crystal Pro linear switch offers a unique and distinctive chirpy sound that sets it apart from other switches. This sound signature adds a playful element to typing, making it quite enjoyable for users who appreciate a bit of character in their keyboard. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, which is suitable for a wide range of users and scenarios. The sound of both switches can be further influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switch is known for its bouncy and polished feel, providing a spring-like feedback and a smooth typing experience. The keys have a lively bounce to them, enhancing the typing sensation for users who prefer a more dynamic feel while typing. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switch offers a stepped tactile feel, which means it provides a mild bump during key presses with discernible pre-travel and post-travel stages. This gives users a tactile response without being too pronounced, offering a comfortable typing experience for extended use.
In conclusion, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Crystal Pro excels in providing a chirpy sound and a bouncy, polished feel, while the Violet Gold Pro delivers a neutral sound and a stepped tactile sensation. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a bright and chirpy sound with a silky smooth typing experience, you may want to choose the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium tactility with a light touch and a neutral sound signature for a balanced typing experience, then the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch would be a great option for you. Consider your sound and feel preferences when deciding between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience for your needs. Ultimately, the choice between the V3 Crystal Pro and Violet Gold Pro switches will depend on your personal preference and the type of typing experience you aim to achieve.
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