Dareu Firefly vs. Akko V3 Piano Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Firefly and the Akko V3 Piano Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Dareu Firefly and the Akko V3 Piano Pro present compelling options with their unique characteristics. The Firefly switch from Dareu stands out as a tactile switch that offers a light actuation with a hint of clickiness, providing an easy-to-press and chirpy typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro features linear switches with a long pole design that delivers a snappy sound signature, creating a bouncy, clacky, creamy, polished, resonant, and silky key feel. While the Firefly switch emphasizes a quieter typing experience, the Piano Pro switch prioritizes a lively and crisp sound with smooth actuation. 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
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Firefly and the Akko V3 Piano Pro both utilize nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches allows for a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This leads to a more muted and satisfying typing experience for users of both keyboards.
In contrast, the Firefly features a polycarbonate top housing, while the V3 Piano Pro incorporates a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Firefly produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the V3 Piano Pro results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This difference in top housing material leads to distinct typing experiences for users of these keyboards.
Despite the differences in top housing material between the Dareu Firefly and the Akko V3 Piano Pro, both keyboards offer users a unique and enjoyable typing experience. While the Firefly's polycarbonate top housing creates a clear and resonant sound profile, the V3 Piano Pro's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between these keyboards may come down to personal preference in sound profile, as both keyboard materials offer their own advantages and characteristics that cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we see that the Firefly has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the V3 Piano Pro's 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Firefly's force is unknown, while the V3 Piano Pro has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. The difference in actuation force suggests that the Firefly may provide a lighter typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro offers a slightly heavier actuation force, potentially appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences when it comes to force requirements, with the Firefly being lighter and the V3 Piano Pro being slightly heavier in terms of actuation force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Firefly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a different typing experience with their respective travel distances. The Firefly provides a deeper keystroke, potentially appealing to users who prefer a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the V3 Piano Pro offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may cater to individuals looking for quicker response times and a more agile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding travel distance and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Firefly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Firefly for $3.76.
The Akko V3 Piano 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 Piano Pro for $3.10.
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 Dareu Firefly tactile switch is characterized by a chirpy sound, adding a unique and distinct acoustic signature to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offers a clacky and resonant sound profile, providing a sharp and lively auditory experience during typing. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference for a quieter and more subtle sound with the Firefly, or a louder and more pronounced sound with the V3 Piano Pro.
When considering the feel of the switches, the Dareu Firefly switch is known for its easy-to-press feature, offering minimal resistance during key presses and a light actuation force that enhances typing comfort and reduces finger fatigue. In contrast, the Akko V3 Piano Pro switch provides a bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky typing experience, characterized by an elastic feedback sensation, smooth and buttery key travel, reduced friction, and exceptional smoothness in key pressing and releasing. The decision between the two would come down to whether one prefers a light and effortless typing feel or a more dynamic and luxurious typing experience.
Overall, the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Firefly provides a quieter and easier-to-press typing experience with a hint of clickiness, while the V3 Piano Pro delivers a louder and more luxurious typing experience with a snappy sound and smooth key travel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, although with different characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two would come down to individual preferences in sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Dareu Firefly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Piano Pro linear switch, consider the key characteristics of each switch. If you prefer a quiet and light actuation with a hint of clickiness, the Firefly may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a snappy and crisp sound with smooth actuation, the V3 Piano Pro could be more suitable. Additionally, if you prefer an easy-to-press switch, the Firefly might be preferred, while the bouncy, creamy, polished, and silky feel of the V3 Piano Pro may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for sound and feel when typing. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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