Dareu Holly vs. Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Holly and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro. The Dareu Holly switch is a tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force, known for its unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, offering a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro is also a tactile switch, characterized by a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, contributing to a delightful typing experience. While the Holly switch is categorized as 'Chirpy', 'Clacky', and 'Neutral', the Lavender Purple V3 switch is categorized as 'Accented', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, making them suitable for different types of users. 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
50g
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
3.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
The similarities between the Dareu Holly and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro are evident in their polycarbonate top housing, which both contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visual aesthetic to the switches. However, the differences arise in their nylon bottom housing. The Holly's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic, creating a rounder sound. In contrast, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a similar sound profile, absorbing more sound and producing a duller tone.
In terms of functionality, the split between the top and bottom housings of the switches impacts the overall sound and feel of typing. The qualities brought by the nylon bottom housing are more pronounced when pressing down on the switch, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the qualities of the polycarbonate top housing are more prominent when letting go of a key, affecting the sound as the key returns to its original position. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housings.
Ultimately, while the Dareu Holly and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, their differences in nylon bottom housing create distinct sound profiles. The Holly's softer nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a duller tone. The split between the top and bottom housings emphasizes the impact of each material on typing feel and sound, providing users with a tactile and auditory experience unique to each switch.
Weight
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch have relatively light actuation forces, with the Holly requiring 50 grams and the Lavender Purple Pro needing 45 grams. However, the bottom out force differs between the two, with the Holly's force being unknown and the Lavender Purple Pro's force being 55 grams. This means that the Lavender Purple Pro will have a slightly heavier feel when fully pressed compared to the Holly. For those who prefer a lighter touch and may need to type for extended periods, the Holly might be the better option. On the other hand, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the Lavender Purple Pro with its higher bottom out force would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches have slightly different travel distances, with the Holly being the longer option by 0.2 mm. The Holly's 4 mm travel distance provides a more pronounced key press feel, perfect for those who prefer a deeper and more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the V3 Lavender Purple Pro's 3.8 mm travel distance offers a slightly lighter touch, making it ideal for users who prefer a quicker response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference, with the shorter travel distance of the V3 Lavender Purple Pro lending itself to a faster typing speed, while the longer travel distance of the Holly providing a more satisfying key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
The Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Lavender Purple Pro for $2.20.
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 Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of being both chirpy and clacky, providing a distinctive typing experience for users. The higher-pitched sound profile of the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch contributes to a delightful typing experience with a satisfying tactile bump. Depending on your personal preference for sound, both switches offer different qualities that cater to a variety of users.
In terms of feel, the Dareu Holly switch is known for its medium 50g actuation force, but specific descriptors are not available. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch offers an accented tactile feel that is not overwhelming yet not scratchy, a bouncy feedback sensation, snappy responsiveness, and a polished finish for smooth key travel. These qualities combine to provide a comfortable and responsive typing experience for users.
Overall, the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on your preferences for sound and tactile feedback, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps when selecting a switch to ensure the best overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you are looking for a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, with a medium 50g actuation force, then the Dareu Holly switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, with a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Akko V3 Lavender Purple Pro switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for sound, feel, and actuation force to enhance your typing experience. Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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